Minutes of a meeting of the Whittlesey Internal Drainage Board held on Tuesday 8th February 2011 at the Town Hall, Market Street ,Whittlesey at 2.30pm
Present G Easton (Chairman), C Allen, R C Brown, J E Cade, R Easton, M Fisher, R W Fletcher, G S Halden, Cllr P Potts, Cllr R C Speechley, P W Tingey, J R Young, R Wright (Clerk) R Hales (District Officer) Mrs M A Wright
Apologies for Absence D Band, D G Beaton, P Bradshaw, T Martin, C Saunders,
134/11 Confirmation of Minutes RESOLVED – That the minutes of the of the Meeting held on 10h November 2010
And those of the Finance & General purposes Committee held on 1st February 2011 are correctly recorded and that they are signed as being a true record.
135/11 Matters Arising
a) Amalgamation with Drysides IDB – Further to minute 121/10 (a) The Clerk reported that the Amalgamation Order has been advertised and no objections had been received. The Clerk had requested that the order be confirmed on the 31st March 2011 so that it coincided with the end of the financial year.
b) IDB Re-view – Further to minute121/10(b) The Clerk reported that no new developments had been received.
c) H M Land Registry – Goosetree Corner & Estate – Further to minute 121/10(c) Serjeant & Sons have heard from Cambridgeshire County Council that the small parcel of land at Goosetree Corner which is subject to a leasehold title at Goosetree Corner which falls within the area occupied by the pumping station can be regarded as being surrendered by operation of Law simply by the Tenant confirming it. However, there is a small parcel of land that the County feel should remain in the CCC title. Details are awaited.
d) Finance & General Purposes Committee:-
The Chairman raised the issues of budget cuts that related to the Old Diesel Pumps and Flail mowing.
The Clerk reported that expenditure on the diesel pumps for 2006/7 was £3,700, 2008/9 £3,800, 2009/10 £2,510 and for 2010/11 £1,200. The annual expenditure included the insurance inspection that amounted to about £300. It was stated that some of the electric stations where the diesels were also had a generator back up. It was agreed that as long as the District Officer was in office it would be advisable to keep the diesel’ as a back up. RESOLVED – That the diesels be retained but that expenditure be limited to the annual inspection and any additional repairs be considered on its merits and approved by the Board
Flail mowing was one area that cuts could be made without lowering the standard of service offered to ratepayers.
R Fletcher mentioned that on his farm a six metre strip was left around the district drains and by not flailing the top or one down would not affect his farming operation .It was also mentioned that fuel costs would had an impact upon Flail mowing charges. RESOLVED – That where work is being undertaken on a length of drain it should be flailed for safety reasons but the practice of mowing areas where work was not being undertaken would disbanded. The District Officer would use his discretion where culverts and inlets had to be used. The main pumping drains would also require annual mowing.
The Chairman then raised concern over the drains and culverts around the Horsey Toll Inlet that fed water into the district. In 2008 the Board obtained the price to lay a 600mmm pipe at £22,790, or a 900mm pipe at £34,500 and considered it to high so the idea was moth balled. RESOLVED – That the Clerk investigates further the cost to improve the system. It was suggested that he contacts Trevor Watson of Fenland District Council and if necessary liaise with Chris Allen.
APH Ltd – The Clerk confirmed that he had spoken to Steve Allan and details should be re4ceived shortly.
The Chairman acknowledged that Cllrs Potts and Speechley may not be representatives of the District council as they were nor seeking re-election so he thanked them for the work and input they have made during their time with the Board.
136/11 District Officers Report The Board considered and approved the report and actions of the District Officer
RAINFALL (mm)
BEGGARS BRIDGE PONDERSBRIDGE
October 2010 51.0mm 48.0mm
November 2010 40.0mm 45.0mm
December 2010 25.0mm 24.0mm
Pumping Station
Electrics Hours Weed
screen Pumping station Hours Weed
screen
Manor Farm 0.1 1h 12m Goosetree Corner 40.6
Goosetree Estate 1.2 0h 28m. Beggars Bridge 52.4 7hr
Wype Doles 11.81 2hr 20m Plantation 0.2
Ramsey Mereside 49.71 109hr Glassmoor Bank 0.00 0hr 9m
Tebbitts Bridge 28.37 3hr 18m Conquest Lode 38.3 8hr 30m
Lords Farm 19.3 Underwoods 213.18 25hr 20m
Ironside 86.7 13hr Drysides 79.58 10hr 42m
Pumping Stations Diesel Pumping Station
Diesel Hours
Goosetree Estate Plantation
Ramsey Mereside Underwoods
Lords Farm Ironside
ISUZU TROOPER The 12,000 mile service was been undertaken in December 2010.
Speedo reading 15,685 miles.
DRAINWORKS /OTHER COMMENTS
a) The Clerk confirmed that the autumn drain works were now complete but a water leak in the drain along Benwick Road caused slips that required piling but recent weather conditions prohibited the works from being undertaken. Anglian Water admitted liability and has agreed to finance the work that will be undertaken when conditions are suitable. It was felt that spring 2011 may be a better time than autumn 2011.
b) Goosetree Estate – The replacement timber for the old diesel decking has been purchased at a cost of £888.23 and work will be undertaken when conditions are suitable.
c) The planning for the autumn drain works for 2011 in the Glassmoor area will shortly be undertaken
d) The Officer reported that a ford motor vehicle registration M675 XFC had crashed in the off the A605 near to Goosetree farm. After considerable time the vehicle has been removed.
e) Ironside – a leak in a radiator to one of the diesel pumps has been found and referred to Patrick Nightingale.
The Chairman thanked Roy Hales for the manner in that he undertook the autumn drain works after a difficult start to the programme.
137/11 General Matters
a) Risk Management
i) Control and Risk Management – The Clerk reported that a review of the Board’s Insurance cover was discussed with the NFU Mutual on 19th January 2011. He asked the members to confirm the recommendation of the F&GP Committee and whether they should re-check the position as regards to breakdown cover. RESOLVED – That the Board will cover all assets above ground only and seek prices for breakdown cover.
(ii) Health & Safety – The Clerk reported upon arrangements and revision to the COSHH assessments, safe working systems and that the Board had renewed the subscription to The Training Association (WEST). The P.A.T. testing on all electrical equipment has been undertaken by Speechley’s.
b) Planning Matters - The Clerk reported that the Consulting Engineer had dealt with the following matters on behalf of the Board:
FYR10/0808/O D Lutkin – lands south of Jones Drove Eastrea – dwelling
F/02006/10/CW P J Thory Ltd – Eldernell Lane – extension of waste transfer station
FYR/02015/10W H Khaler Crease Bank – Agric building to scrap yard. The Clerk reported that MLC had opposed the application due to factors that may affect the adjoining watercourse.
R C Brown left the meeting at 15.15.
c) Consents - The Clerk reported that the following consents have been granted
No 163 G S Halden – 19 tile drain outfalls at Farcet Fen. - THIS CONSENT IS TO BE WITHDRAWN
No 168 E & C Holland - three drain outfalls at Benwick Road Whittlesey
The Clerk reported that Chapelbridge Farms had spoken to the District officer regarding two water controls and those details were to be submitted.
d) Rate Determination. The Board approved the following determinations:-
J R Anker of Coates 5.00a 300 2.50a 150
Float Fish Farm 16.80 580 Special levy mineral workings
P J Thory Ltd 22.506 1452 11.613 740
e) Middle Level Commissioners – The Clerk reported that the Commissioners are looking into telemetry arrangements for the IDBs administered by them and details have been requested.
f) BAPS – The Clerk, Vice Chairman and District Officer attended a BAPs event in December organised by the Middle Level Commissioners. A larch panel bat box was purchased at a cost of £65. The DO reported that an otter had been spotted in the Ramsey Mereside area and a meeting with Cliff Carson, Environmental Officer, Peter Tingey, Clerk, District Officer and a local fishery owner D Coull was arranged for January 2011. At the meeting it was agreed that an otter holt would be constructed within the bankside of the main drain leading to the Ramsey Mereside pumping station. The holt has since been built.
Further holts were being considered for Conquest and Turningtree Road.
g) New Electricity charges are being investigated for Lords Farm and Underwoods
h) Environment Agency – The Clerk reported upon a meeting with the Environment Agency, Middle Level, North level, Feldale and Whittlesey IDBs regarding the Nene Washes that were now classified as a Reservoir. Proposals were discussed but firmer details would be forthcoming before any decision was to be approved.
138/11 Payments made by the Board
The Board considered and approved payments made:-
Vouchers 130 - 162 £33,711.96
Vouchers 163 – 193 £52,385.43
Vouchers 194 – 214 £15,260.59
139/11 Estimates of Income and expenditure
The Board considered income and expenditure for 2010/2011. The Chairman thanked the Clerk for the details contained in his report and his precision when estimating.
140/11 Other matters
The Chairman reported that D Fountain had commented on how well the former Whittlesey Fifth area was looking after the autumn drain works had been undertaken. The Chairman had driven around the district and confirmed that all looked well, he was aware that the Officer would look at a section of Drain down Jones Drove as piling may be required.
141/11 Dates of next meeting
The Clerk reported that if the Board was amalgamated with Drysides IDB then a meeting in April would have to be arranged to appoint officers, bankers etc. The main meeting to fix the rate would still be held on 14th June 2011.
The Chairman thanked members for their attendance and declared the meeting closed at 15.40
Minutes of a Meeting of the Finance & General Purposes Committee held on Tuesday 1st February 2011 at 8.300am at Engine Farm, Wisbech Road, Coates.
Present G Easton (Chairman), M Fisher, R W Fletcher, Cllr P Potts, The Clerk District Officer.
Apologies for Absence D Band, R C Brown
FGP128/11 District Officers Report – The District officer reported that the weed screen cleaner hours at Manor Farm were correct as although the pump had only run for 0.1 hours the cleaner made four passes during that time. He also reported that a fault with the sensors at Ramsey Mere had arisen due to the frost and the cleaner had run for 3 to 4 days. Underwoods pump had been run in preference to Manor Farm.
FGP129/11 Goosetree Corner & Estate Registration
The Clerk reported that problems with an area being released from A C Neal tenancy agreement were still pending along with a question of the area being transferred.
FGP130/11 Drainworks
a) The District Officer reported that work to the slip alongside Benwick Road had been deferred due to weather conditions; he would investigate further and check to see whether the work could be left until autumn 2011
b) A water leak outside Ironside pumping station had been reported to Anglian Water.
c) Baps – The Clerk reported upon the Baps meeting held by the Middle Level Commissioners. The District Officer would contact Conservation Construction Ltd with a view to the siting of the bat box at Wype Doles.
FGP131/11 General Matters
a) Consents – The Clerk reported that Consent 163 had been withdrawn as the works were not to be undertaken.
The Clerk reported that APH Ltd had made a discharge connection to a district drain without prior consent. It was agreed that the Chairman and Clerk would visit APH Ltd to resolve the matter.
b) Rate Determinations – The Clerk explained that part of Anker of Coates site had been grassed and was for future expansion so part had been retained.
The area at Farcet fen was in mineral extraction and as such would be transferred to the Special levy Charge to Huntingdonshire District Council.
The area at Eldernell lane was covered by a commercial rate.
FGP132/11 Estimates
a) Income & Expenditure 2010/2011 - The Clerk reported upon income and expenditure. He reported that fuel costs would rise, value added tax, employers pension contributions would be increased from 19.3% to 22.5% in 2011/12, to 25.8% in 2012/13 and to 29% in 2013/14, inflation etc which would have a knock on affect to the Board’s annual expenditure.
If the Board wished to maintain the rate at 12p then cost saving measures would be required and the Board does not wish to see its services affected. The only possible cost measure identified by the Clerk would be flail mowing or suspending work on the diesel sites. The timber to repair the old decking at Goosetree Estate alone was £888.23. The pressure vessels still needed to be inspected. The Chairman asked the Clerk to identify costs to maintain the diesel pumps etc.
As well as increases in expenditure a decline in income had also been identified – interest rates being much lower, less development hence less income from developers, and possible restriction of income from highland water contributions.
b) Insurances – As part of his Risk assessment the Clerk was reviewing insurance cover and needed criteria to establish insurance cover. At present assets were valued at £2,281,448 but it was uncertain as to how it had been arrived at. The Board needed to ascertain if they required structures above and below ground to be covered. The Committee felt that cover above ground only would be required. The Clerk mentioned that the commercial vehicle cover had been increased from £463.24 to £634.38 and this was being investigated. Also breakdown cover for pumps and, panels could be as low as £50 each. The Clerk would report once figures were available from the NFU Mutual.
FGP133/11 Other Business
Cllr Potts informed the Committee that she would not be seeking re-election as a District Councilor in May but Fenland District Council had indicated that they may keep her as one of their representatives. Cllr Speechley may be in the same position.
As no other business was raised the Chairman thanked the members and Officers for their attendance and declared the meeting closed at 10.30am
Minutes of a meeting of the Whittlesey Internal Drainage Board held on Tuesday 9th November 2010 at the Town Hall, Market Street, Whittlesey at 2.30pm.
Present G Easton (Chairman), C Allen, D Band, D Beaton, R C Brown, J E Cade, M Fisher, R W Fletcher, C R Saunders, Cllr P Potts, Cllr R C Speechley, P W Tingey, R Wright (Clerk), R Hales (District Officer).
Apologies for Absence P M Bradshaw, G S Halden, T Martin, M W Sweet, J Young, Mrs M A Wright
120/10 Confirmation of Minutes RESOLVED – That the minutes of the Meeting held on 8th June 2010 and the Finance & General Purposes Committee held on 4th November 2010 were correctly recorded and that they are signed as being a true record.
121/10 Matters Arising
a) Amalgamation with Drysides IDB – Further to minute 107/10 (a) The Clerk reported that a notice proposing to make an order confirming the scheme submitted by the Environment Agency had been made on 23rd August and no objections had been received. The next stage would be for Defra to advertise the scheme and at present no time scale was known.
b) IDB Re-view – Further to minute107/10(b) The Clerk reported that the government is committed to ensuring efficient and effective public bodies, whilst also allowing local communities a greater opportunity to determine what works best in their area. They are no longer working towards ensuring amalgamations of all IDBs in accordance with the sub-catchment map by 2013. However, they urge IDBs to organise themselves in a way that maximizes their efficiency and their effectiveness, taking into account hydraulic boundaries as well as the benefits of efficiencies of scale considering the range of goals that IDBs currently have. Smaller boards should consider the benefit of making changes which could be through amalgamations or through working as consortia. At present the cost effective threshold suggested is £500,000 pa turnover. Defra have sent all Chairmen a questionnaire to be completed by 3rd November which was duly completed and sent. The Clerk gave a brief report upon the questions and response which the Chairman thanked him for.
c) H M Land Registry – Goosetree Corner & Estate – Serjeant & Sons are waiting to hear from Cambridgeshire County Council to consent the application and confirm the position as regards to a small parcel of land at Goosetree Corner which is subject to a leasehold title at Goosetree Corner which falls within the area occupied by the pumping station.
122/10 District Officers Report
RAINFALL (mm)
BEGGARS BRIDGE PONDERSBRIDGE
May 2010 10.50mm 22.50mm
June 2010 33.50mm 26.50mm
July 2010 23.50mm 16.00mm
August 2010 116.00mm 136.75mm
September 2010 55.50mm 65.00mm
Pumping Station
Electrics Hours Weed
screen Pumping station Hours Weed
screen
Manor Farm 17.6 3hr57m Goosetree Corner 7.9
Goosetree Estate 6.7 1hr44m Beggars Bridge 16.2 10hr27m
Wype Doles 30.16 7.2hr Plantation 0.5
Ramsey Mereside 38.6
18hr38m Glassmoor Bank 21.71 2hr21m
Tebbitts Bridge 57.35 12hr12m Conquest Lode 14.7 8hr01m
Lords Farm 18.8 Underwoods 121.57 25hr47m
Ironside 43.0 19hr25m
Pumping Stations Diesel Hours Hours Pumping Station
Diesel Hours
Goosetree Estate Plantation
Ramsey Mereside Underwoods
Lords Farm Ironside
ISUZU TROOPER
Speedo reading 9919 miles.
PUMPING STATIONS
DRAINWORKS /OTHER COMMENTS
a) The Clerk confirmed that the autumn drain works are in progress and the Kingsland area of the Beggars Bridge pumped area Wype Doles area were completed. The enlargement of the culvert at Wype went well and a 6’ 6” dia 29 foot Armco pipe was attached to the downside of the existing concrete pipe. The section of drain alongside Benwick Road has had the side removed and the Chairman reported that he was pleased with how the District Officer had left the small fields.
The District Officer mentioned that piling along Jones Drove was in a poor state and it was agreed that the Chairman and Vice-Chairman would make an inspection and authorise the necessary remedial work.
The Clerk reported that the final cost to repair and extend the culvert at Wype Doles pumping station was £3,191.36 and the amount received from the insurance claim was £4,089.00. The question of whether a contribution from N Turner was discussed. RESOLVED – as the costs were under the amount received from the insurers it was agreed that no contribution would be sought from N Turner.
b) Conquest Lode – The replacement weed screen has been installed and costs to date total £5,600 the budgeted estimate being £7,500.
c) Lords Farm – Diesel sump – The work on the old diesel sump has not been started due to other commitments.
d) The Electrical Engineer has completed the annual service checks and PIR testing to the pumping stations.
e) Water control structures – The new designed water control structure has worked well.
f) Beggars Bridge Pump – Messrs Shoebridge reported that having removed the Pump P00070, type Sa60-04 found two additional items that required replacing. The existing terminal board is of tuffenell construction and prone to moisture absorption, and fitting an upgraded polymer board was recommended at a cost of £942. The power and instrument cables are showing signs of degradation and new cables complete with all new glands should be fitted at a cost of £842. Member of the F&GP Committee were approached and agreed that the additional work should be undertaken.
g) Vulcan Inspection Services have inspected lifting gear on 14th October at Beggars Bridge – Conquest Lode –m Goosetree Estate – Lords Farm – manor Farm - Underwoods Station
h) Nursery site Eastrea Road – The clerk along with the DO inspected the drainage ditches around Gildenburg Water as a complaint of high water levels had been received. The matter was complicated in that the comments made by both parties were inflicting and may involve a legal precedent and outside the powers of the Board. The Clerk had contacted Anglian Water but as yet no response had been received.
i) Decking Diesel pump Goosetree Estate – The Officer confirmed that he had fenced off the old decking area until repairs could be undertaken.
j) Remote Monitoring – The Board were in favour of the green light system and work would be undertaken at stations when the Electrical Contractor was doing other work. The Clerk would obtain costings for telemetry systems.
The District Officer reported that the low level had cut in at Drysides but he had received no phone message but was aware as the green light was visible.
RESOLVED – That the report and actions of the District Officer be approved.
123/10 General Matters
a) Risk Management
i) Control and Risk Management - A review of the Board’s Insurance cover will be made prior to renewal along with a look at the Financial Regulations, Code of Conduct, and Standing Orders.
(ii) Health & Safety – The Clerk reported that Health & Safety arrangements continue to be update and a list of courses being run by the training group had been passed to the District officer. The Board’s machine contractors have also been on refresher course.
b) Planning Matters - The Clerk to report that the Consulting Engineer had dealt with the following matters on behalf of the Board:
FYR10/0353/AG1 C Abblitt – Poplar Farm, Oil Mills Road – agricultural storage building
Hunts D C Travellers site Straight Drove Farcet Fen
Hunts D C Travellers site corner of Straight Drove with Kings Delph Drove, Farcet Fen.
FYR10/0505/0 B Emerson west of 180 Coates Road, Coates – dwelling
H/10/01431/f Mr Hudson Float Fish Farm, Ramsey Road - dwelling
FYR10/0706/EXTIME P Wenham 208 Coates Road, Coates – dwelling
F/YR10/0727/F N Bedford 22 South Green Coates 2 dwellings
FYR10/3092/COND P Smith Goosetree farm – discharge of condition 3 & 7
The Board are still awaiting documentation regarding surface water disposal from A & C Properties Ltd at 300 Eastrea Road Whittlesey
c) Consents - The Clerk reported that the following consents have been granted
No 163 G S Halden – 19 tile drain outfalls at Farcet Fen.
No 164 J White –m 2 tile drain outfalls at Jones Drove Whittlesey
No 165 J S & S E White –4 tile drain outfalls to drain at Jones Drove, Whittlesey.
No 166 Belmont Farms – tile drain outfalls into district drain at Elm Farm Glassmoor Bank, Whittlesey.
No 167 G C Field & Sons – tile drain outfalls at Tebbitts Bridge Farcet Fen.
The Chairman was concerned that the District Officer and machine operator were putting back tile drain headwalls and asked what the position was as at one time the board would not allow headwalls in a district drain. The Clerk referred to the consent that clearly put the onus upon the ratepayer. The Board agreed that many farmers would not re-instate the headwalls and if they did spoil would end up in the drain. RESOLVED – That the Board agreed that the officers actions were a “good well gesture” and at present should continue.
d) Rate Determination. RESOLVED – That the following determination be approved and the rate of £8.04 be written off”
P J & I Harlow Wakes Farm, Farcet Fen 2.905a 202 135
e) Middle Level commissioners – The Clerk reported that he had a meeting with the Chief Executive of the Commissioners along with John Chrisp on 16th July 2010. Matters discussed were the IDB Review – Water Framework Directive – Catchment Flood management plan – Spoil disposal – Flood and Water management Act – St Germans pumping Station
f) Carbon Reduction Commitment CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC) – The Clerk reported that registration of Glassmoor Bank and Manor Farm had been completed.
g) Manor Farm – The Clerk reported that a new agreement with SWALEC for the supply of electricity at manor pumping station was signed on 16th September 2010 for a 12 month period.
h) IDB liaison Meeting 3rd November with the Environment Agency – The Clerk reported that he had attended an IDB liaison meeting at Brampton. The matters raised and discussed were the possible de-maining or delegating of the maintenance of main rivers – the role of IDBs in the Local Flood Risk management Partnerships – IDB grants and Projects – Dredging trails – maintenance programme of £3.6m – precepts – Highland Water payments – data sharing.
The Chairman was interested in hearing that the control of some weeds was effectively controlled by the use of chemicals. He asked D Beaton whether any spraying had been undertaken in the district. D Beaton confirmed that none other than around the pumping stations.
i) Public Bodies Bill – The Clerk reported that the Bill had its first reading on 29th October 2010. The purpose of the Bill is to streamline the procedures for approval of amalgamations, boundary changes, and changes in rules of procedure by giving
the EA a decision-making role in non-contentious cases. Strengthen governance systems and incentives for efficiency, by providing for the composition of Boards to reflect sources of funding and for Boards to include members representing the wider environmental interest.
Further consultation on the transferring of powers to supervise IDBs from the EA to upper tier local authorities is being considered.
124/10 Payments made by the Board
The Board considered and approved the following payments:-
Vouchers 33-64 £30,402.70
Vouchers 65- 97 £23,939.88
Vouchers 98- 129 £26,066.23
125/10 Accounts 2009/2010
a) The Clerk reported that the audit was completed by Moore Stephens on 3rd September 2010 and the appropriate notices have been displayed.
b) The Internal Audit report from Mr G Whitfield confirmed that the financial controls and procedures put in place by the Board are sufficient to enable the Board to operate efficiently and effectively. The report from the Audit Commission which considers the Use of Resources and Value for Money has been considered and I append the main criteria which the Board might like to use for self appraisal:
• Channels of communication are in place with service users
• Variances against operational targets, for taking action where necessary, and reporting to members
• Robust measures are present to manage performance against budgets
• Arrangements are in place to manage its significant business risks
• There are appropriate processes to manage and improve value for money
• Arrangements are in place to ensure the Boards spending matches its available resources
• Appropriate steps are taken to manage the Boards Asset base.
c) The Chairman confirmed that in line with the Agricultural Wages Board the Clerks fee and officer’s salary would be increased by 2.4%
126/10 Estimates of Income and expenditure
The Clerk reported upon income and expenditure for 2010/2011 and reference was made to the schedule of Income and Expenditure.
127/10 Other matters
The Chairman felt that the farmers in the area where the autumn drain works were being undertaken had been supportive of the District officer and co-operated with removal of headlands to enable the work to proceed on schedule. Work started slowly bur good progress has been made and he congratulated the District Officer on the manner that he undertook his duties and thanked him. The Chairman also thanked the Clerk for the work that he had undertaken for the Board and felt that the Board had good conscientious Officers working for them.
127/10 Dates of next meeting
8th February 2011 14th June 2011 8th November 2011
Minutes of a Meeting of the Finance & General Purposes Committee held on Thursday 4th November 2010 at 9.00am at Engine Farm, Wisbech Road, Coates.
Present G Easton (Chairman) D Band, R C Brown, D Beaton, M Fisher, R W Fletcher,
Apologies for Absence Cllr P Potts, J Young
FGP116/10 Middle Level biodiversity Action Partners – The Clerk to report that a meeting for District Officers and Board Representatives would be held on Thursday 2nd December at 9.30am at the Oliver Cromwell Hotel, March. It is planned as a meeting to progress the practical aspects of delivering the IDB BAPs. RESOLVED – That the District Officer and Vice Chairman attend.
FGP117/10 IDB Review
The Committee further considered the IDB Review and addressed the questions on amalgamation and other issues raised by Defra.
Q1. (a) What size do you think makes for a cost effective IDB taking into account the costs of governance as well as other factors?
A1. (a) Whittlesey I DB support ADA’s thoughts that there are four strands to securing cost-effective IDBs across all of England and Wales:
• delivery of function;
• financial security;
• local circumstance;
• their role in the post Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and Comprehensive Spending Review partnerships.
These strands are enshrined in the aforementioned “Vision for IDBs in England & Wales” and each is vital to identifying the most effective way forwards for every IDB.
Firstly, Boards must make sure that they have sufficient financial resource to deliver the full range of statutory functions required of them by legislation and desired of them by national Government, Local Flood Partnerships and Authorities and their local communities. They must also ensure that they have the necessary critical mass of expertise and operational capability to be able to play a full part in local partnerships as identified in the Flood and Water Management Act, and to take on responsibility for main- river in areas where the Environment Agency needs to reduce or withdraw from its maintenance regime.
Financial security, especially certainty of long-term funding of their activity is an essential element of cost effective delivery of function.
Local circumstances will inevitably influence the role of the IDB within the communities served and will impact on the scale of operational activity required of an IDB.
Whittlesey IDB therefore contends that the achievement of these requirements of the modern and evolving IDB is essentially a matter for local determination as circumstances vary regionally, as do management models. Whittlesey IDB feel that a stand alone IDB may be able to deliver all the requirements even where turnover was below the previously accepted minimum turnover of £500,000 as being part of a consortia arrangement.
Q1. (b) What is your view of the £500,000 pa turnover threshold that has been used as a guide to amalgamation to date? Should this threshold continue to be the guideline figure?
A1. (b) Whittlesey IDB considers that the £500,000 per annum turnover is not a good indicative minimum. Boards with a threshold below this level have been able to demonstrate that they are a cost effective organisation and able to meet the evolving role. These Boards can seek substantial cost efficiencies and the critical mass to perform their functions through consortia working.
Q2. What is your view on encouraging IDBs to amalgamate along hydraulic lines, and using Defra’s sub-catchment map as an advisory guideline?
A2. Whittlesey IDB strongly supports IDB boundaries continuing to reflect the hydrology of their catchment. Amalgamations should therefore take place along hydrological lines as far as is practically possible. However, Whittlesey IDB understands that in some areas it may make sense to group outlying Boards with others either through amalgamation or consortia, in order to secure long term service delivery by ensuring a critical mass of finance and resource.
Defra’s sub-catchment maps and proposals were not always a good description of the underlying hydrology of catchments and in some cases purely represented regional groupings of IDBs.
Defra’s sub-catchment maps have acted as a basis for discussion and Whittlesey IDB believes that progress has been made on a local level to understand a way forwards within these plans through discussions between IDBs and Regional Flood Defence Committee chairmen. Whittlesey IDB would like these discussions and the amalgamation proposals which have come forth to be allowed and encouraged to continue to their logical conclusion.
Q3. (a) An alternative could be to set standards for efficiency and effectiveness which involve looking at for example maintenance costs or biodiversity impacts. What are your views on this approach?
A3. (a) Whittlesey IDB is not convinced that efficiency and effectiveness targets will necessarily provide tangible and meaningful goals or milestones with which to benchmark IDBs. The varying hydrology, communities served and landscapes mean that IDBs can vary significantly across England and Wales. This variation presents a need for IDBs to be flexible to deliver a locally tailored and focused water level management and land drainage function. For instance biodiversity impacts would be difficult to compare between districts, as some Boards enjoy a number of SSSI`s and designated features within their catchment whilst others do not. Therefore, like for like comparisons may not be conclusive or equitable.
Not withstanding this however, Whittlesey IDB does see some merit in seeking measures of efficiency and effectiveness and would propose that Whittlesey IDB (with Defra support) promote a debate through consultation with dedicated practitioners and industry personnel to take forward the research, test any hypothesis and to later present their conclusions to the Defra, EA and other stakeholders for scrutiny.
Q3. (b) And if you would like this approach, have you any suggestions for useful indicators?
A 3. (b) See answer to 3(a)
Q 4. (a) Do you think that providing clear advisory guidance as to size and efficiency will have sufficient impact? If not, what else could be done?
A 4. (a) Whittlesey IDB would welcome clear advisory guidance as to the size of Boards in relation to both area and turnover and statutory functions present and evolving. On this basis Whittlesey IDB would also welcome a clear statement from Government that they see IDBs as an independent yet integral part of the future delivery of flood risk management, water level management and land drainage.
Q 4. (b) Should we focus on removing barriers and hurdles to effective and efficient structures and creating the right incentive structure? If so, what are the main barriers and hurdles which we need to focus on? And how do we ensure that IDBs have the right incentives to reorganize in an efficient manner?
A 4. (b) Whittlesey IDB supports the removal of barriers to amalgamation and would see the guidance described in the answer to Question 4. (a) as helpful.
IDBs face a number of barriers towards both amalgamation and creating more efficient and effective structures. These barriers include:
• overcomplicated amalgamations process;
lengthy Defra consideration of amalgamations and reorganisations;
• higher audit fees for IDBs with income > £1 million;
• complex boundary review procedures;
• the outdated Medway letter of 1933. Whittlesey IDB supports the use of hydrological boundaries.
• uncertainty about the role the Government sees for IDBs in the future.
• uncertainty about the long term acceptability of the use of differential rating orders.
Q5. Is there anything further you would like to add on amalgamations or the other issues mentioned in the letter?
A5. Whittlesey IDB strongly supports Boards forming constructive working partnerships with other flood risk management authorities especially lead local flood authorities and there are a number of reforms that can support this. However, it remains essential for national consistency that the Environment Agency continues to scrutinise IDBs and this task does not move to Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFAs) as previously proposed by the EA. This change would establish a barrier to good co-operative working and would be impractical to implement in a number of parts of England where IDB Districts extend across a number of Local Authorities areas. This is because LLFAs are not organised on a catchment basis, unlike EA regions, and do not currently have the skills set required to facilitate this function in a nationally consistent manner.
The system for land Drainage has evolved over many years and it is clearly demonstrated that areas that are served by an IDB are better protected than areas not covered. Small Boards have met targets and delivered a service that has stood the test of time. The small Boards have an excellent working arrangement with ratepayer that may well be lost if am amalgamation is made. Representation may also be affected as a larger Board would lose local input
Whittlesey IDB feels that the present Governments commitment to ensure efficient and effective public bodies, whilst allowing local communities a greater opportunity to determine what works best in their area is right. Boards have operated this idea for several years and have managed to fulfill their functions by prudent management the manner in that they carry out their duties. At present the Whittlesey IDB is amalgamating with Drysides IDB in view of changes within the Drysides area. The Board has been proactive in this field and this is demonstrated by the fact that the Whittlesey IDB was formed by the amalgamations of four independent IDBs.
FGP118/10 Income and Expenditure
a) Income & Expenditure 2010/2011 - The cost to replace the weed screen at Conquest lode was £5,600 a saving of £1,900 of the budget price. The overhaul at Beggars Bridge cost £7,908.25. Station maintenance is over budget as unforeseen repairs to the weed screen cleaners at Manor £1,380, Underwoods £1,150, Ramsey Mereside £400, new levels Glassmoor Bank £645, ELL system Manor £606.
The Committee felt that no new weed screen cleaners were required at this stage.
b)Municipal Mutual MMI Scheme of Arrangement - The Clerk to report that The Financial Services Compensation Scheme was created under The Financial Services and narks Act 2000, and has replaced the policyholders Protection Board. The amount of the Claims payments is £68,647.06 less £50,000. However at present the Directors of the Scheme of Arrangement can foresee a solvent run-off.
FGP119/10 Other Business
a) Goosetree Estate – old diesel decking. The District Officer reported that the wooden decking was unsafe and repairs would be undertaken as soon as possible. In the meanwhile he would mark off the area with hazard fencing.
b) Remote Monitoring - The Committee considered Telemetry Systems and whether it was right to implement a system in view of comments from Defra. The DO explained that at present some stations had red running lights and at Goosetree Estate and Drysides a green light to indicate a problem if the low level cut in or the system tripped out on overload. The Clerk reported that he had spoken to D Thomas of the Middle Level Commissioners who were looking into telemetry for their IDBs. RESOLVED – The Clerk to investigate costings and reports back to the Committee.
c) Spraying – The Clerk reported that the Environment Agency had undertaken spraying trails which proved beneficial. D Beaton reported that currently Hoedown or Gallup could be used but due to work commitments no spraying other than to control weeds at the stations had been undertaken.
d) Drainworks - The DO reported that the drain works were progressing well despite root crops not being lifted. The former Whittlesey Fifth area was currently being undertaken and the condition of the piles alongside Jones Drove was a concern and would be investigated further.
The Chairman thanked the Clerk & District Officer for the manner in which they carried out their respective roles. He also thanked the members for their attendance and declared the meeting closed at 10.30am
Minutes of a meeting of the Whittlesey Internal Drainage Board held on Tuesday 8th June 2010, at 2.30pm at the Town Hall, Market Street, Whittlesey.
Present G Easton (Chairman), D M Band, P M Bradshaw, R C Brown, R W Fletcher, C R Saunders, Cllr R C Speechley,
M W Sweet, R Wright (Clerk) R Hales (District Officer) Mrs M A Wright, J Winton
Apologies for Absence C Allen, D G Beaton, J E Cade, R Easton, M Fisher, G S Halden, T Martin, Cllr Mrs P Potts,
P W Tingey, J R Young.
105/10 Guest Speaker Joe Winton Development Officer Wind Prospect Ltd
Joe Winton gave a brief history of the Company started in 1992 and now employed over 200 staff in eighteen offices.
The Company undertook onshore developments that were designed to secure sustainable and diverse supply of clean, safe and reliable energy. He explained the development criteria, environmental and technical areas needed before actual building of a wind farm started. The main problem in a development was the planning issue which could take up to three years to be resolved.
He then spoke about the existing development at Glassmoor bank and the proposals to include a further six turbines and any issues that were likely to affect the drainage system. The site was in Flood Risk zone 2 and the impact upon the drainage system was considered low.
He then answered questions raised by members after which the Chairman thanked him for his presentation.
106/10 Confirmation of Minutes RESOLVED – That the minutes of the Meeting held on 2nd March 2010 and the Finance & General Purposes Committee of 1st June 2010 were correctly recorded and that they are signed as being a true record.
107/10 Matters Arising
a) Amalgamation with Drysides IDB – Further to minute 96/109 (a) The Clerk reported that no further correspondence has been received from either Defra or the Environment Agency.
b) IDB Re-view – Further to minute 96/10(b) The Clerk reported that no correspondence from neighbouring Boards regarding the review had been received. With the recent change in Government and the uncertainty that further changes may be imposed the Board felt that they had covered Defra requirements as regards to the amalgamation process.
108/10 District Officers Report The Board considered and approved the report and actions of the District Officer
RAINFALL (mm)
BEGGARS BRIDGE PONDERSBRIDGE
February 2010 68.00mm 82.00mm
March 2010 32.50mm 38.00mm
April 2010 12.50mm 18.00mm
Pumping StationElectrics Hours Weed screen Pumping station Hours Weedscreen
Manor Farm 463.6 12 Goosetree Corner 103.9
Goosetree Estate 213.1 14 Beggars Bridge 173.7 16.2
Wype Doles 186.98 20.3 Plantation 86.7
Ramsey Mereside 343.79 53.5 Glassmoor Bank 305.14 23.2
Tebbitts Bridge 475.26 12.2 Conquest Lode 73.5 5.5
Lords Farm 148.4 Underwoods 440.9 17.5
Ironside 477.6 33.25
Pumping Stations Diesel Hours Hours Pumping StationDiesel Hours
Goosetree Estate Plantation
Ramsey Mereside Underwoods
Lords Farm Ironside 0.5
ISUZU TROOPER
On the 1st April the Board replaced the Isuzu Trooper with an Isuzu Rodeo 2.5 CRD Denver Double cab in Tornado red,
Registration AF10 YTU at a cost of £15,760 less private sale of Trooper £3,500. The recorded mileage as at 30th April was 1,405 miles and the 1,000 service has been undertaken.
PUMPING STATIONS
The contractor has undertaken grass cutting at the stations.
DRAINWORKS /OTHER COMMENTS
a) The Clerk confirmed that all drain work notices have now been served upon the relevant authorities and ratepayers.
b) Conquest Lode – A replacement weed screen was budgeted last year but the work was delayed and is now in progress and has been allowed for in the estimates at a cost of £7,500
c) Lords Farm – Diesel sump – The work on the old diesel sump was not undertaken last year and a figure of £5,000 has been included in this year’s budgets.
d) The Electrical Engineer has started the annual service checks to the panels and levels. PIR tests are also being undertaken this year.
e) Water inlets and Water control structures – The inlet at Manor Farm, Goosetree Estate was completed last year and a figure of £2,500 has been included in the budget for this year. The Finance and General Purposes Committee has inspected the structure and photos of the structure were distributed to the members. It was considered that the new structure was a good design and would be safer to operate. The Officer had demonstrated to the Committee how it worked but as yet it had not been used sufficiently for its operational use to be evaluated.
f) Beggars Bridge Pump – Problems with water ingress will mean that the pump will need to be lifted and a general over-haul undertaken. Quotes from Shoebridge Engineers and Bedford Pump Company will be sought. The Chairman and Vice Chairman were authorised to accept the quote they considered appropriate.
g) Vulcan Inspection Services have inspected all air vessels on 30th April 2010 and the eyebolts at Underwoods Station on 13th April 2010.
The Chairman asked members to notify the Officer of any matters that needed attention and to inform the Officer when irrigation would be undertaken as it sometimes took 4/5 days for him to build up the water levels in some areas.
109/10 General Matters
a) Risk Management - Control and Risk Management – The Clerk reported upon Risk Management Assessment. A review of the Board’s Insurance cover had been made and the valuation of the various pumping stations was increased from £399,654 to £406,449 and contents from £1,291,688 to £1,304,728 weedscreen cleaners from £457,550 to £469,000. Plant assets were depreciated from £9,890 to £4,815. Pipes, dam boards, fir piles, toe boarding and culvert cleaning equipment were valued at £4,861. The fuel account balance was £558
(ii) Financial Regulations – The Board considered that no changes are required to the regulation reviewed last year and approved on 14th June 2005.
(iii) Regulations as to Proceedings – The Board considered that no changes are required to regulations reviewed last year and approved on 14th June 2005.
(iv)The Health & Safety – The Clerk reported that updates to Health & Safety procedures and policies were continuing and reminded all members when on Board business to adhere to safety measures.
b) Planning Matters - The Clerk reported that the Consulting Engineer had dealt with the following matters on behalf of the Board:
FYR10/0247/F E C Brown & Son Ltd 144 Cock Bank – extension to agricultural building
FYR10/0229/AG1 Cambs CC Manor Farm, Wisbech Road, Coates – agricultural building
H10/00445/F P Harlow Wykes Farm, Milk & Water Drove – replacement Cottage
FYR10/0286/F S Nicholas 135 Ramsey Road change of use of land
FYR10/0102/O Reliant Building Contractors Ltd Station Goods yard – 52 dwellings opposed
FYR10/0300/F D Lepla 402 Eastrea Road Eastrea change of use public house and 6 dwellings
The Board have received a Flood Risk Assessment from G Beel Consultancy on the proposed extension to re-cycling yard at Eldernell lane by P J Thory Ltd.
The Clerk reported of his meeting with Wind Prospect Ltd regarding the six additional turbines planned at Glassmoor Bank and the possible affects the development may have on the drainage system. The existing haul road would be used and it was envisaged that two culvert crossings would require attention.
c) Consents - The Clerk to report that the following consents have been granted
No 159 Alan West-Robinson- entrance gate and wooden fence Cross Drove, Coates Whittlesey.
No 160 E P Brand Farmers Ltd – 13 tile drain outfalls at Tebbitts Bridge
No 161 Collmart Growers Ltd – new 10m access culvert at Pondersbridge, Ramsey
N0 162 Collmart Growers ltd – new access culvert the Drove, Pondersbridge.
d) DEFRA - The Clerk reported that the Floods & Water Bill that seeks to revise, modernise and consolidate existing legislation covering flooding, land drainage, coastal erosion and reservoir safety was granted Royal Consent in April. The key features of the Act were
· To give the Environment Agency an overview of all flood and coastal erosion risk management and unitary and county councils the lead in managing the risk of all local floods.
· To introduce an improved risk based approach to reservoir safety.
· To encourage the uptake of sustainable drainage systems by removing the automatic right to connect to sewers and providing for unitary and county councils to adopt SUDS for new developments and redevelopments.
· To widen the list of uses of water that water companies can control during periods of water shortage, and enable Government to add to and remove uses from the list.
· To enable water and sewerage companies to operate concessionary schemes for community groups on surface water drainage charges.
· To reduce ‘bad debt’ in the water industry by amending the Water Industry Act 1991 to provide a named customer and clarify who is responsible for paying the water bill.
· To make it easier for water and sewerage companies to develop and implement social tariffs where companies consider there is a good cause to do so, and in light of guidance that will be issued by the SoS following a full public consultation.
IDB Biodiversity Action Plans – The Middle Level Commissioners and the Wildlife Trust have completed the plan and the Board to consider its adoption. RESOLVED – that the Board adopt the BAP and the Chairman signs the documents.
e) ADA – The Clerk reported that the Conference will be held in September 2010 at the East of England Showground and details will be circulated to any members that wished to attend.
f) Municipal Mutual Scheme of Arrangement – The Clerk to report that the Directors continue to foresee a solvent run-off.
g) Environment Agency Water Framework Directive – Great Ouse Catchment Flood management Plan – the public consultation will continue until 9th July 2010
Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management – forward planning for Grant 2011-2012 to 2015-2016 for Capital Improvement Works and Related Studies. RESOLVED – That at present no Capital works were envisaged.
h) Energy Charges – The half-hourly reading charges at Glassmoor Bank have been amended to monthly billed that will reduce availability charges. Energy charges continue to be monitored at the various stations.
i) St Germans Pumping Station – The completion of the new station is approaching and it was necessary to effect the transition to the new from the old. The Transition involved up to four days without any IDB pumping and was undertaken around 19th April 2010
j) Babcock International Group – Peterborough Central – March (PIA) 132kV Overhead Tower Line Refurbishment from May to October 2010.
110/10 Payments made by the Board
The Board considered and approved the following payments made by the Board:-
a) 2009/2010 vouchers 222 –252 £118,146.57
Voucher 253 HMR & C Paye £1,743.05
voucher 254 e.on electricity Underwoods £588.40
b) 2010/2011 vouchers 1-32 £40,057.16
111/10 Accounts 2009/2010
a) The Clerk presented the Annual Accounts for the year ended 31st March 2010 and the Statement of Annual Governance.
RESOLVED – That the Annual Accounts be approved along with the Statement of Annual Governance and the Clerk and Chairman sign the Annual return.
b) The Clerk reported that the audit has been called for 1st June 2010 and the appropriate notices have been displayed. The Internal Auditor is currently re-viewing the 2009/2010 accounts.
c) The Board to consider Internal Audit arrangements which is currently undertaken by Mr G Whitfield. a former Audit Manager with the audit commission.
RESOLVED – That G Whitfield be appointed as internal auditor for 2010/2011.
d) Banking – The Clerk reported that at present £100,000 was deposited with Santander in a reward Saver account @ 2% and £51,054.80 in a Bond @2.3%. It was agreed that the Clerk continues to monitor the investments.
e) Peterborough Deeping Fen & Whittlesey Training Group (PDFW). The group had loss the services of their secretary and were suggesting two options to members. One was to merge with the Training Group West and the other to mothball the PDFW and seek associate membership with the Training Group West. P Bradshaw the current Chairman explained in more details the options. RESOLVED – That the Board supported option one – the merger with the Training group West.
112/10 Estimates of Income and expenditure
a) The Clerk presented a schedule showing income and expenditure for 2009/2010.
b) The Board considered estimates for 2010/2011. The Gross expenditure of £216,800 was approved less income of £6,950 that left a net expenditure of £209,850.
113/10 Rates and Levy Requirement
Under Section 37 of the Land Drainage Act 1991, the appropriate proportions in which the net expenditure of the Board must be met for 2009/2010 is: -
a) Agricultural Sector 75.02%
b) Special Levy issued to Fenland District Council 17.76%
c) Special Levy issued to Huntingdonshire D C 7.22%
The estimated net expenditure of £209,850 in 2010/2011 is equivalent to a rate of 12.9p.The Finance and General Purposes Committee had recommended a rate of 12p as they felt that part of the cost of the to refurbish Beggars Bridge pump could be met from the Insurance contingency fund. Savings were also envisaged from the weed screen replacement budget and other cost headings. P Bradshaw asked whether the rate should be kept at 12p as in previous years the Board had have to increase the rate after keeping it static.
RESOLVED – That the Board levy a rate of 12p.
a) A rate of 12p in the £ on Agricultural land and buildings to raise £146,418.96
b) A special levy on Fenland District Council of £34,674.84
c) A special levy on Huntingdonshire District Council of £14,096.04
d) That the seal of the Board be affixed to the Record of Rate & Special levy
e) That the Clerk be empowered to recover any outstanding rate through the appropriate court.
114/10 Other Matters
a) The Chairman reported that he would be attending the office of Serjeant & Sons at Ramsey to do make a statutory
Declaration regarding the registering of Goosetree Corner and Goosetree Estate pumping stations.
b) Wype Culvert – The Board would be improving the culvert this year and would hold talks with interested parties. E C Brown & Sons had offered a load of brick bats.
115/10 Date of next meeting Tuesday 9h November 2010 at 2.30pm the Town Hall, Whittlesey
The meeting was closed at 3.55pm and the Chairman thanked the Clerk and Officer for the work they had undertaken last year on behalf of the Board and all members for their attendance.
Minutes of a meeting of the Finance & General Purposes Committee of the Whittlesey Internal Drainage Board held on Tuesday 26th January 2010, at 9.00am at Engine Farm, Wisbech Road, Coates.
Present G Easton (Chairman), R C Brown, D Band, D Beaton, R Fletcher, M Fisher, Cllr P Potts,
J Young, R Wright (Clerk), R Hales (District Officer)
Apologies for Absence None
FGP 90/10 IDB Review
R Brown reported upon the Middle Level I D B Review report presented by Geoff Beel, at a meeting on the 16th December 2009, attended by Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and Clerks of Boards within the Middle Level sub-catchment. It was the general consensus of those present that amalgamations would and should occur, the proposals for three IDB’s was drawn up on a financial basis and to be implemented in five to ten years. The proposals would be discussed by all Boards at their AGM.
Although the proposals had to be considered by each Board the thoughts of Defra were still not known.
The Chairman felt that the Board should encourage more talks with neighboring Boards and it was suggested that Geoff Beel be invited to give a presentation at a Board meeting upon his proposals.
FGP 91/10 Diesel pump
The Chairman asked members for their comments regarding the future of the Diesel pumps operated by the Board –
Goosetree Estate, Ironside, Lords Farm, Old Plantation Farm, Ramsey Mereside, Tebbitts Bridge, Underwoods.
The members felt that the diesels pumps, provided a valuable save guard should a problem occur with the electric supply, and should continue at the present time to be maintained. The matter could be re-viewed in the future.
FGP 92/10 Income and Expenditure
a) The Clerk reported that the cost to replace the Water control at point 37 was £2,659.47. The District officer had yet to test the structure but was pleased with its construction. The expenditure on the slip at manor had cost £14,860 but savings had been made on drain works and by not undertaking the work at Conquest Lode and Lords Farm.
The Clerk reported that he had been approached by Santander Business banking about a Business account that was offering 2% on amounts over £20,000 and had opened the necessary accounts after talking to the chairman and Vice Chairman.
b) Income & Expenditure 2009/2010. The Clerk presented a schedule that listed income to date of £205,787.33 and expenditure of £158,280.02
c) The Clerk reported upon likely expenditure for 2010/2011
i) Ironside - possible problems with top bearing in number 2 pump
ii) Wype - possible problems with thrust bearing
iii) Lords Farm- old diesel sump estimated £5,000
iv) Conquest Lode – weed screen estimated £7,500
v) Vehicle – replacement of Trooper. Quotes from Hockmeyor Motors Ltd and Hylton Gott Ltd were discussed. The DO favored an Isuzu Rodeo Denver double cab with load cover, tow bar, load liner, seat covers and floor trays. The basic price was £14,999 plus extras £2,595 and trade in of £3,534. The Clerk and DO to make further enquiries with Hylton Gott Ltd.
FGP 93/1
a) The Clerk presented an application by PG Packaging to extend an existing culvert and create a new water course within the site. The Committee had no objections to the culvert extension and the digging of the new water course provided it did not affect the adjoining land owner.
b) The Clerk reported that he would be meeting with CG Utilities to discuss the electricity tariffs as a possible saving may be made by changing from monthly to quartley metering.
The meeting closed at 10.30am
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Minutes of a meeting of the Finance and General Purposes Committee of Whittlesey Internal Drainage Board held on Tuesday 1st June 2010 at the farm office of G R & P Easton, Engine Farm, Wisbech Road, Coates, at 8.30am.
Present G Easton (Chairman) D Band, M Fisher, R Fletcher, Cllr P Potts, J Young,
R Wright (Clerk) R Hales (District Officer)
Apologies for Absence R C Brown, D Beaton
FGP 102/10 IDB Review
The Chairman reported that no advancement had been made in respect of the amalgamation with Drysides I D B.
The committee felt that the Board had taken the appropriate steps as regards to instigating talks with neighbouring Boards and until such time as Defra had considered the proposals of the Middle Level Commissioners Consultant it was uncertain as to how neighbouring Boards wished to proceed. Concern was also raised about how the new Government viewed the proposals and whether they would enforce amalgamations.
The Flood and Water Bill had been passed and Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council were actively looking towards supervising surface water management within their areas. Concern was expressed as to how effective the system would operate.
The Chairman mentioned that within a few years both the Clerk and District officer and indeed himself would be viewing retirement and what probable changes it would have on the future Administration and Engineering operational running of the Board. The Committee discussed the matter and decided that at present no recommendations could be made and that the Administration and Engineering services should be raised at a later date.
FGP 103/10 Income and Expenditure
a) Income & Expenditure 2009/2010 - The Clerk presented a schedule to the Committee showing income and expenditure for 2009/2010 which had resulted in a net surplus of £853.82 income over expenditure.
b) Income Expenditure 2010/2011 – The Clerk presented a schedule showing gross expenditure of £216,800 and income of £6,950 leaving net expenditure of £209,850 which would equate to a rate of 12.89p in the £.
The overhaul at Beggars Bridge could partly be funded by revenue and a contribution from the Insurance contingency Account. The works at Conquest Lode were estimated at £7,500, the actual weedscreen had cost £4,845 with probably labour costs of £1,000 leaving a balance of £1,655. Savings were also envisaged over the running costs of the new vehicle and other headings the Committee felt that a rate of 12p could be recommended to the Board on 8th June 2010.
c) Several Committee members were members of Anglian Farmers and had made substantial savings by purchasing items through the group. The Committee recommended that the Board should investigate whether joining would be beneficial.
FGP 104/10 Other Business
a) The Chairman had spoken to the Vice-Chairman about replacement/extension of Wype Dole culvert which would be undertaken this autumn. The DO was concerned that removal of the existing culvert may have an effect upon the highway. It was agreed that costings to extend the culvert be made and whether a contribution should be sought from the owner.
b) New Water Control – It was agreed that the Committee would inspect the new water control at the conclusion of the meeting.
c) Lords Farm – J Young reported that seepage was occurring in the Middle Level commissioners embankment at Lords Farm and that they were looking at putting back an original soak-dyke.
d) Shaw’s at Farcet – Member were informed that the Environment Agency along with Police officers were in attendance at Shaw’s yard in Main Road, Farcet.
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Minutes of a meeting of the Whittlesey Internal Drainage board held on Tuesday 2nd March 2010 at the Town Hall, Market Street, Whittlesey at 2.30pm.
Present G Easton (Chairman), D M Band, D G Beaton, R C Brown, J E Cade, R Easton, M Fisher, R W Fletcher, G S Halden, Cllr P Potts, C R Saunders, R C Speechley, M W Sweet, P W Tingey, R Wright (Clerk), R Hales (District Officer),
Mrs M A Wright
Apologies for Absence C Allen, P M Bradshaw, J R Young, T Martin
94/10 Guest Speaker
G Beel talked about his proposals for IDB Review within the Middle Level Area. He spoke about the J Benn report of 2006, followed by the Pitt report of 2007, and Defra’s Sub-catchment proposals of 2008. The Flood and Water Management Bill had been through the House of Commons and was on its second reading in the House of Lords. The idea to merge the existing 32 Boards into one Board was considered wholly unworkable and not sustainable. His proposals were for three boards based on income, district council boundaries and river catchments with a further ten year time scale from April 2013. He felt that Boards should be looking into possible mergers in order to prevent Defra enforcing amalgamations.
The Chairman thanked Geoff for his presentation.
95/10 Confirmation of Minutes
RESOLVED – That the minutes of the meeting held on 10th November 2009 and those of the Finance & General Purposes Committee of the 26th January 2010 were correctly recorded and that they are signed as being a true record.
96/10 Matters Arising
a) Amalgamation with Drysides IDB – Further to minute 83/09 the Clerk reported that the Environment Agency had advertised the draft scheme in the Evening Telegraph on 23 February. After 28 days the EA will inform Defra to process the matter by advertising draft scheme, arranging for order to be sealed, advertising sealed order and then confirming order. The EA were unable to give a timescale as it would be in the hands of Defra.
b) IDB Review – Further to minute FGP90/10 - the Board considered the options of waiting for other Board s to make a move or for them to be the instigator. RESOLVED – That the Board should start the process of talking with neighbouring Boards,
and if possible arrange a meeting with them and invite Geoff Beel to be present.
97/10 District Officers Report - The Board considered and approved the report and actions of the District Officer
RAINFALL (mm)
BEGGARS BRIDGE PONDERSBRIDGE
October 2009 31.50mm 31.00mm
November 2009 83.50mm 92.00mm
December 2009 68.50mm 82.50mm
January 2010 61.00mm 59.50mm
PUMPING STATIONS - DIESEL (Hours) The diesels were not run during the period
GOOSTREE ESTATE PLANTATION RAMSEY MERESIDE
UNDERWOODS TEBBITTS BRIDGE LORDS IRONSIDES
PUMPING STATIONS - ELECTRIC (Hours)
MANOR 489.6 GOOSETREE CORNER 131.6 GOOSTREE ESTATE 240.1
Weed Screen 45 Weed Screen 13.75
BEGGARS BRIDGE 201.6 WYPE DOLES 203.5 PLANTATION 77.2
Weedscreen 39 Weedscreen 16.7
RAMSEY MERESIDE 320.74 GLASSMOOR BANK 211.72 TEBBITTS BRIDGE 309.74
Weedscreen 45 Weedscreen 15 Weedscreen 8
CONQUEST LODE 29.6 LORDS 73 UNDERWOODS 378.98
Weedscreen 2.5 Weedscreen 24.25
IRONSIDE 438.9 DRYSIDES 260.91
Weedscreen 37.25 Weedscreen 20.11
ISUZU TROOPER
Speedo Reading from October 87675 to January 92751
On 17th December Chandler’s undertook 90,000 mile service; a new 4 wheel drive switch, anti roll bar bushes and a new set of glow plugs were fitted. On 19th January Chandler’s undertook underbody service, mot and fitted a new spring.
PUMPING STATIONS
All trailers were emptied in December and pumps were all put on maximum hours to deal with extra water caused by the snow melt. On 21st January P Camplin dealt with problems to weed screen cleaners at Manor Farm, Glassmoor Bank, and Tebbitts Bridge. Water levels were raised in January to assist with the filling of reservoirs. P Nightingale undertook repairs to auto greasers at Manor Farm and Glassmoor Bank He also repaired trailer at Conquest Lode.
At Beggars Bridge Speechley’s were called out to investigate a warning light. Water in the seal was discovered and if left could cause problems with the motor. The DO reported that water had seeped into the motor and it would be necessary to lift the pump in the summer to undertake an over haul. Problems arose over the weekend and the pump had to be reset in order to keep on top of the rising water levels. The Chairman thanked the DO for the keeping the pump operational over the weekend.
The DO reported that Wype Doles pump would need to be lifted as the thrust bearing needed replacing.
DRAINWORKS /OTHER COMMENTS
Drainworks went well this year and all works were completed on 24th November 2009. The pump drain at Wype was wedded as an extra. On 3rd December with the experimental water control at the rear of Manor Farm, Coates was completed.
The Clerk reported that the DO had planned the Autumn drain works for 2010 and the appropriate notices had been served to those affected on 23rd February.
The DO had planned the Autumn 2010 drain works and the Clerk confirmed that the relevant notices had been issued on the 23rd February 2010.
The Board were concerned over the amount of seepage through the MLC river banks from Benwick road through to Pondersbridge. Cllr Potts agreed to take the matter up with the MLC.
The Board were also concerned that water levels were high in the MLC watercourses mainly due to the fact that wtare was being pumped from Tebbitts Bridge and only one pump was being run at St Germans. The Board were also concerned about where the sixteen Foot passed under Well Creek at Outwell. Money was being spent at St Germans but nothing appeared to be happening at the bottle neck area. Cllr Potts to take the matter up with the MLC.
Matters Arising
a) Risk Management - Control and Risk Management – The Clerk reported upon Risk Management Assessment and that a meeting with James Skelton of the NFU Mutual had taken place and the insurance cover increased where appropriate.
b) Health & Safety – The Clerk presented a revised Health & Safety & Environmental Policy and the stressed the need to manage road safety at work as road accidents are the biggest cause of work related accidental deaths. A driver safety Handbook had been circulated to all members. RESOLVED – that the Health & Safety & Environmental Policy and Driver Safety Handbook be approved and adopted by the Board. The Chairman duly signed copies that were handed to the DO and Clerk.
c) Code of Conduct – The Clerk reported that all forms had been returned.
d) Planning Matters - The Clerk reported that the Consulting Engineer had dealt with the following matters on behalf of the Board:
H09/01390/F A Keene 214 Oil Mills Road extension and conservatory
FYR09/0727/F D Burton 26 Nobles Close, Coates - extension
FYR09/0814/F Cambs CC 121 Aliwal Road - extension
FYR10/0023/F R Mutimer 1 Ashline Grove - extension.
H10/00104/F K McPartlin Milk & Water Drove – Change of use from Agricultural to office
H09/01615/ G Clarke Slackerground Farm, Straight Drove – Agricultural storage building.
FYR10/0050/F NTSS Ltd Goosetree Farm, Goosetree Estate- Health & safety training centre
The application FYR090582/O Harrier Homes Food store, petrol filling station, car parking etc Benwick Road has been passed by Fenland D C but was subject to an appeal due to be heard by the Secretary of State. The drainage details for the site have yet to be presented and approved.
Discussions with Terry Stafford and G Moore as to the drainage of the site at APH Ltd - erection of building at Poplar farm Wisbech Road Coates have taken place and proposals are being undertaken to either attenuate the flow to existing run-off level or have a direct discharge. It was suggested that the roof area would be drained by a direct discharge from two outfalls and proposals were under consideration. A contribution of £14,000 would be applicable if the discharge was approved.
Peterborough Flood Risk Partnership has been created to ensure the management of surface water around Peterborough to reduce the risk of surface water flooding and the Clerk attended a meeting on the 11th February 2010.
The drainage of Anker’s new site still remains to be resolved and proposals submitted to the MLC are unacceptable at present.
Request for Scoping Opinion – proposed erection of two wind turbines, Collmart Growers, The Drove, Pondersbridge.
e) Consents - The Clerk reported that the following consent have been granted
No 158 Anker of Coates construct 450mm culvert Eldernell lane Coates.
A letter has been sent to A & M Catering regarding the damage to the bank at Benwick Road, Whittlesey and the drain batters will be re-profiled in the autumn as part of the 2010 programme.
Consent to discharge surface water from 50% of the new agricultural building at Blackbush Farm, Blackbush Drove , by
M Crowson has been granted. The contribution made being £818.74.
f) DEFRA - IDB Review
IDB Biodiversity Action Plans – The Middle Level Commissioners have appointed the Wildlife Trust to assist with the preparation of the plans and a draft plan has been circulated.
Flood Risk Regulations 2009 - transpose the Floods Directive in England & Wales, come into force on 10 December 2009.
Key provisions: - give responsibility to the EA to prepare Directive deliverables – give responsibility to lead local flood authorities (unitary and county councils) – identify areas of significant flood risk – require flood hazard maps and flood risk maps to be prepared before 22/12/2013 – require flood risk management plans to be prepared before 22/12/2013 – require engagement with the public and relevant authorities in the production of Directive deliverables
g) Water Resources Act 1991/ Water Act 2003
F Smith & Sons application to vary licence 6/33/53/S/066 at Ramsey Mereside
Chapelbridge Farms application to renew licence 6/33/53/S/673 linked with Star Pit.
C J Fountain & Son Ltd application to renew licence linked with Star \pit.
h) ADA – Concerns were being raised about the subscriptions and the lack of support ADA were giving to IDB’s over the Derfra Review. Some Boards were leaving the Association but the Board felt that membership should continue.
i) Municipal Mutual Scheme of Arrangement – The Clerk reported that no changes were evident and a solvent run off would be achieved.
j) Environment Agency – the Clerk reported that the next IDB liaison meeting is on Wednesday 3rd November 2010
k) Electricity – The Clerk reported that the supply of electricity at Glassmoor Bank is being altered from half hourly read to monthly – Monthly standing charge £73.12 – day units 8.29p/kWh – night 5.66 p/kWh. The remaining sites were being transferred to SWALEC.
99/10 Payments made by the Board The Board considered and approved the following payments :-
Vouchers 130 –159 £42,338.17
Vouchers 160- 192 £57,976.27
Vouchers – 163-221 25,088.46
100/10 Estimates of Income and expenditure
i)The Clerk presented a schedule of income and expenditure to date for 2009/2010
ii)The Clerk reported that the quote from Chandlers for a new vehicle was £16,000 and Hylton Gott £16,894. The DO had managed to obtain a buyer for the Trooper at £,500. An order had been placed with Chandlers for delivery of a new vehicle at the end of March.
101/10 Date of next meeting
Tuesday 8th June 2010 and Tuesday 9th November 2010 all at 2.30pm at the Town Hall, Whittlesey
