1. Present:
   Councillors Mr A Wood, Mr D Syms, Mrs J Turner, Mr R Thomas, Mr B Atkinson, Mr S Smith, Mrs J Smales, Mr P Perls,
   County Councillor Mrs S Marshall, Craven District Councillor Mr D Crawford and 9 parishioners.
   
2. Apologies:
   Councillor Mrs J Sugden
   
3. Public Participation
   Reports were received of problems with children playing football on North Street car park where damage had been caused to a garage door. Problems had also occurred at the Village Hall and the Co-op car park. Several reports had been made to the police who were now patrolling the village on a more regular basis.
   A resident who was fairly new to the village offered to power wash and seal the war memorial and also to make repairs to the circular seat nearby. Thanks were expressed for his kind offer.
   A number of children had recently had problems with transport from Wharfedale School, Cty Cllr Shelagh Marshall had helped to resolve this and residents presented her with flowers as a thank you for all her efforts.
   Reports of problems with blocked drains near Walton Avenue had been received and it was suspected that sewerage may be leaking into the goit. Yorkshire Water were currently investigating the problems.
   It was reported that the wall leading up to Gargrave House on Mark House Lane was leaning badly and with a large crack. Cty Cllr Marshall had reported this some time ago for NYCC Highways to contact the owner and she was to follow this up.
   
4. Matters Arising from Minutes
   The sharing arrangement of the lock up by the Village Hall was now in place and the direct debit would be reduced by £15 per month to reflect this. Details of bills for telephone and broadband were requested and an approximate amount of £30 per month was quoted.
   The NALC final salary award was now in place.
   Cllr Smith reported he had cleaned and repaired the Summer Seat roof and also reported that Robert Lowther has some roof tiles if required. It was noted that the “No Smoking” sign had disappeared.
   A Cockshott had requested permission to sell jam at the Summer Seat in aid of the bell-ringers and permission was agreed.
   The Christmas lighting was now in place and although one or two complaints had been received a saving of over £1000 had been made. It was hoped that in future years the lights could be increased.
   
5. Report from County Councillor
   Cty Cllr Marshall brought to the meeting a letter of support for the applications in progress for funding towards the playground refurbishment.
   NYCC were currently requesting public help to make roads near schools safer by creating task groups to check on speed. As Neville Road currently has a 20mph speed limit and is also a cul-de-sac it was considered not to be a problem.
   Details of a Policing Pledge were given allowing scrutiny of police actions.
   Details of the Fire Authority Review were given, notably the fact that they carry out electric blanket testing with new blankets issued if old ones are condemned.
   Cllr Syms asked for clarification between Wards and Parishes which were dependent upon size of population, benefits from creating a Council.
   
6. Report from Craven District Councillor
   Cllr Crawford reported that at the quarter ending September savings had been made and they were ahead of budget which was to be commended. It was hoped that further Category 3 savings would be made.
   Application had been made for the Trueman statue to be erected at the Canal Basin rather than on the High Street and it was expected to attract extra visitors to Skipton.
   The Chairman’s Civic Duties were currently under review.
   The windfarm appeal was due to take place in January and following recent Government discussions it was considered that it may be difficult to refuse permission. Some cases had been upheld and some had been refused.
   Cllr Crawford reported that Brewery Lane was expected to re-open over the Christmas period and temporarily in early Spring. Although work on the building had stopped at the moment, CDC were still on schedule for moving into the premises.
   Number 9 High Street had temporarily been occupied.
   Cllr Crawford had spoken to Highways and asked them to look out for a road sign “Unsuitable for Heavy Vehicles” and would advise the residents of Airedale Avenue if this was possible.
   
7. Planning Decisions
   Butterhaugh Farm – Replacement stables and tack room – will be considered at the next Planning Committee on 14 December 2009.
   Butterhaugh Farm – Change of use of agricultural land to provide riding arena for the exercise of horses for private use – refused.
   Butterhaugh Farm – Detached single storey stable and tack room – refused.
   Butterhaugh farm – Single storey extension of existing agricultural building and detached agricultural building to provide shelter to animals and secure storage for animal feed – granted.
   Higherlands House – Fell 1 no. Cherry – no Tree Preservation Order to be made.
   Land adjacent to Brightenber Hill – Erection of 5 no. Wind turbine generators and associated works – Local Inquiry to be held at Craven District Council Offices, Granville Street, Skipton 12, 13, 14, 19 and 20 January 2010.
   
8. Planning Applications
   Co-operative Shop – Widen access and alterations to entrance to existing car park.
   Old Hall Fold – Internal alterations with new first floor attic stair and new first floor shower and WC.
   1 Meadowcroft – Demolition of existing bungalow and construction of bungalow with wheel chair access – Parish Council raised concerns regarding the height of the new roof and the inclusion of windows in the roof leaving the term “bungalow” as questionable.
   NYCC – Gargrave CEP School – Installation of a replacement kitchen ventilation system.
   Cllr Turner left the room reference Application No. 30/2009/10134
   19 High Street – Change of use from residential to two holiday letting accommodation.
   
9. Toilet Gutter Cleaning
   It was agreed that the gutters on the public toilets were in need of cleaning and the Chairman was to organise this.
   
10. Home Energy Checks
    Cllr Turner gave details of the Home Energy Checks and would request leaflets and publish information in the Parish Magazine.
    
11. Property Letting
    Cllr Turner gave details of the new arrangements with requirements for registration.
    
12. Replacement Street Light Church Street
    Quotations had been obtained for the replacement of the street lamp which was damaged when a tree blew down. It was agreed to replace the light with a lantern type painted black. The remaining tree in that location was in poor condition and the Clerk would complete the required paperwork to enable removal of the tree prior to installation of a new light.
    It was also agreed to arrange for removal of the light on 22 West Street and install a new steel column nearer to St Roberts Close and to fit a new standard wall light to 5 West Street.
    
13. Energy Quotation
    A cheaper quotation for unmetered energy supply for street lighting had been obtained from NYCC and it was agreed to accept this quotation, the Clerk would make the necessary arrangements.
    
14. Date of next meeting
    Parish Council Meeting Monday 04 January 2010 at 7.15 p.m.
    

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from District. Cllr. Crawford and Cllrs D. Perls and J. Smales.
   
2. Refuse collection.
   Paul Shevlin, the new Chief Executive of Craven District Council, and a colleague gave a brief but thorough explanation of the new sytem of waste collection which is driven by he need to recycle a greater proportion of waste. Each household will receive a "Your Craven" newspaper before the end of 2009 to explain the system followed by bin stickers particular to that household. The new system, which will operate on a four weekly rota, will start in mid-January.
   
3. County Councillor's report.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall informed the Council that Craven DC was likely to appeal against the "withholding of consent" decision to implement charges at North Street car park.
   
4. Public toilets.
   It was agreed to discuss the future of the public toilets at the January meeting before the following week's budget meeting. Councillors are to canvass village opinion before then.
   
5. Emergency planning.
   Details of the community emergency planning scheme had been received with a contact number of 01969-532652 for the public to use in the event of a disaster.
   
6. Donation.
   A donation of £20 is to be sent to the Essential Breaks fo Disabled People charity.
   
7. Planning applications.
   Plans for two homes adjacent to 48, Eshton Road had been resubmitted. The Council offered no comment.
   
8. Christmas lights.
   An estimate of £1,814 plus VAT had been received to erect and remove the village Christmas tree and lights. It was suggested that th elights could remain in situ during the year to save costs.
   
9. The Council's garage.
   It was agreed that the garage rented by the Parish Council could be shared with the Village Hall to save costs, on a trial basis initially.
   
10. Summer seat.
    The leaking roof at the summer seat was noted.
    
11. Corresponence.
    The Council decided to hold a special meting the following Monday to discuss the Community Governance Review of all 75 Parishes in Craven District.
    
12. Next meeting.
    The next meeting will be on Monday 7 December 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
    

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cty. Cllr. Marshall and Cllrs S. Smith, D. Perls and J. Smales.
   
2. Public participation.
   A parishioner from Church Lane generated a discussion about large vehicles using their land to access the farm.
   There was also a discussion about the Co-op's car parking strategy and how it might impact on the village. This led on to discussion of the forthcoming meeting of the North Yorkshire CC Area Committee on 8 October as an item on the agenda of that meeting was the proposed introduction of pay and display on Noth Street car park.
   [Note that two Parish Councillors and District Cllr. Crawford attended that meeting and the consent of North Yorkshire to this proposal was withheld. Craven DC may appeal against this decision. Cty. Cllr. Marshall spoke against the proposal. The votes were 1 for the proposal, 4 against and 1 abstention]
   
3. Matters arising.
   A parishioner asked District Cllr Crawford again that dimmer bulbs be installed in the lights in North Street car park.
   The cleaning of the Damside goit is to go ahead as soon as possible whilst the land is relatively dry.
   
4. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawford reported that the Civic Service had been enjoyable though at the last minute the Air Ambulance had to abort its visit to Gagrave in order to respond to an accident elsewhere.
5. Airedale Avenue.
   The residents of Airedale Avenue were congratulated on the repair and upgrading of the road surface. The weight limit of 24 tonnes on Airedale Avenue was noted. The Council agreed to pay a small contribution towards the cost of this work as it forms the vehicular acess to the playground.
   
6. Playground.
   It has been agreed that Sutcliffe Leisure, a Yorkshire based company, is the preferred supplier of the equipment for the intended upgrading of the playground. The Council has begun work to seek to raise the funding of up to £60,000 which is required for this work.
   
7. Christmas Lights.
   North Yorkshire CC have still to replace cabling etc. in order that power can be taken from the nearby lamp post to the Christmas tree. The contractor will also be asked if the long lengths of lights can be put into the trees in the plantation near the Summer Seat rather than across the river.
   Villagers who have brackets for the purpose will again be invited to have Christmas trees installed in them as last year.
   
8. War Memorial.
   The Council will again pay for plants for the approach to the Memorial.
   
9. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 2 November 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall when a representative of Craven DC will attend to give a presentation on the change to alternate weekly bin collections - please come along to voice your opinions and ask questions.
   

1. Apologies.
   No apologies were received as all members were present.
   
2. Public participation.
   Inspector Frank from North Yorkshire Police in Skipton introduced PCSO Gary Battison to the Council and parishioners.
   Questions were put to the council and to these officers on a wide variety of topics including the work in progress around the village, undesirable behaviour, overgrown hedges and a query about whether asbestos might be present in the vicinity of the chuch clock.
   
3. County Councillor's report.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall referred to a questionnaire from North YOrkshrie to the Council concerning proposed road and pathworks in the area. The Council has received and will respond, in particular to suport the extension of thefootpath on the south side of Broughton Road to go over the railway bridge for the ease and safety of access to and from the down (northbound) platform of the station. Cty. Cllr. Marshall also explained that the Council could request that salt bins be provided in particular locations.
   
4. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawfor explained that by 2010 Craven DC must recycle at least 40% of the district's refuse. The current level is 35%. The view at Craven DC is that reducing the frequency of collections to fortnightly is likely to encourage an increase in recycling.
   The Parish Council has arranged a meeting in the Village Hall with Rachel Wallbank of Craven DC to discuss waste collection arrangements. All are welcome to atend that meeting.
5. Stream clearance.
   The Branched Bur Reed which is causing problems in the goit at Damside had been discussed prior to the meeting with an expert from the RHS. Her advice was discussed during the meeting.
   
6. Toilets.
   The uncertainty over the contractual arrangements under which the Council has taken responsibility for he village toilets from Craven DC persists and discussion with Craven DC are continuing.
   
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 5 October 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall
   

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Wood and Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
   
2. Public participation.
   There was a long discussion about vandalism around the village. A Community Police Officer urged members of the public to continue to call the non-emergency number and, if possible, give names and descriptions of the perpetrators. Unfortunately Gargrave produces the hghest number of complaints of this nature within the area covered by the Officers based at Grassington.
   It was reported that several parishioners were unhappy with the noise which had arisen during the recent refurbishment of the Co-op. Little warning had been provided and it had involved overnight working for three weeks.
   
3. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawford reported that Craven D.C., unlike many other District Councils, has rejected the proposed electoral reform to an "all out" system under which all Council seats would be contested at the same time every 4 years. The "all out" system already applies to Parish Councils, the next elections in Gargrave being in May 2010.
   He also explained that the Craven Civic Service is to be held at 2-30 pm on Sunday 4 October at St. Andrew's Church, Gargrave. The theme is "Celeprating Craven".
   
4. Playground.
   Parishioners from Airedale Avenue reported on the meeting which they had held to progress their response to the proposed refurbishment of the playground.
   
5. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 7 September 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall
   

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
2. Public participation.
   A parishioner reported on continuing damage to property in the village. The Chairman reiterated the previous advice that villagers need to report all such occurrences to the Police so that the village maintains its priority in terms of police presence.
3. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawford was asked when the Area Committee meeting was to take place as this is the forum for villagers to make representations about the proposed Pay and Display car parking. Cllr. Crawford thought it would be in the autumn.
4. Playground.
   There was a brief update on available funding routes and a report on the public meeting on 8 June. Some residents of the area around the playground informed the Council that they were hoping to hold a redisents' meeting to consider the proposals withint he next few weeks.
5. Environment Agency Flood Action Plan.
   This was discussed briefly. The Environment Agency had held an open consultation and had informed a member of the council that their 24 hour emergency telephone number should be used to report any noxious substance being put intot he river.
6. Other matters.
   Quotes for work on various sites around the village were discussed and agreed. The Village Walks leaflets were considered and its agreed to update them. The Clerk is to progress the amendments.
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 3 August 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Playground Redevelopment.
   The meeting was to discuss schemes for the proposed redevelopment of the village playground.
   Several residents who live around the playground attended. There was a frank exchange of views. It was stressed that this was an initial meeting with others to follow and that the funding for changes is to be sought from grants rather than the village precept.
   Also residents need to be aware that wear and tear to the existing equipment together with the Parish Council's duty to respond to concerns expressed in the annual RoSPA inspection of the playground make changes in the equipment and facilities inevitable.
2. Next meeting.
   The next (regular) meeting (i.e. not specifically related to the playground) will be on Monday 6 July 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Perls.
2. Public participation.
   Several parishioners came to discuss the issue of travelleres to and from Appleby Horse Fiar. The police had been expected to attend the meeting but unfortunately did not. The Chairman and Clerk had taken advice from a solicitor as to possible courses of action to control the issues of nuisance which have arisen this year.
   Other parishioners expressed concerns about the behaviour of a minority of young people in the village.
3. County Councillor's report.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall said she would consult with relevant agencies to see if there are any further steps which can be taken on both the areas of concern expressed in public participation.
   She also commented on the semi-cut verges and was going to ask various quesitons on this matter at Northallerton.
4. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawford reported that the garages at Sharphaw View are included in this year's round of auction sales by Craven D.C.
5. Accounts.
   The RFOs, Cllrs Sugden and Turner, reported that the internal audit for 2008/09 was complete. Accordingly the relevant forms were signed at the meeting for dispatch to Mazars, the Government appointed external auditors, before the deadline of 30 June to enable them to complete their work.
6. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 8 June 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall to discuss schemes for the redevelopment of the playground.

1. Appointments.
   The Council was introduced to Mrs. Linda Duck who took over as clerk.
   Cllr. Wood was re-elected as Chairman and Cllr. Syms as vice Chairman.
2. Public participation.
   Several parishioners from Airedale Avenue asked about the proposed refurbishment of the playground. They were told that an open evening will be arranged in June to discuss the proposals and that they would be informed of the date and time.
   The travellers on their way to Appleby have moved large stones on the greens.
3. Police business.
   This item on the agenda had to be abandoned as the police did not attend.
4. County Councillor's report.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall believes that NYCC will look again at the possibility of erecting crash barriers at Niffany in view of the latest tragedy involving Charlotte Wade.
5. Planning.
   Permission for the extension of the Premier Inn at the Anchor has been approved.
6. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 8 June 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

Before the formal proceedings commenced, the Council sent its condolences to the family of Charlotte Wade who had been killed recently.

The Chairman's report included coments about the past year having been one of the busiest he had known in his 11 years on the Council.

The meeting closed at 7-20 p.m.

There then followed a brief interlude in which Alan Simpson, the previous Chairman of the Council said a few words about the clerk, Mr. A. D. Cockshott, who retired at the end of the Annual Meeting. He was wished well in his new venture of bell ringing.

Parishioners should note the new telephone number for the Council, 01756-668209, its new e-mail address gargravepc@yahoo.com and its new correspondence address, Gargrave Parish Council, Gargrave Village Hall, West Street, Gargrave, Skipton, BD23 3RD

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Atkinson and Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
2. Housing.
   Sarah Close, the Rural Housing Enabler at Craven D.C., gave a presentation about the initiative to create local homes for local people across North Yorkshire. She reported that 136 families are on Craven's waiting list for Gargrave.
3. 3. Public participation.
   Thanks were expressed by both parishioners and members of the Council for the work done by groups and individuals who "litter picked" the village on Saturday 4 April.
   A parishioner inquired about the availabilty of allotments in the village. He was directed to the allotments near the Masons' Arms.
4. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr. Crawford explained a little about the "package of measures" voted for by Craven D.C. This included the installation of "pay and display" car parking. He was questioned closely by members of the Council but stood by "the package". However before introducing "pay and display" Craven D. C. still has to go through certain manadatory procedures, i.e. consultation, parking orders, police consultation and assent by the Area Committee. These would take until about June or July.
   Craven Tennis Club is in contact with Craven D.C. about access to its premises following the intended sale by Craven D. C. of land near its premises. Plans for alternative access appear to be in the pipeline.
5. Correspondence.
   NYCC Highways have written to inform the council that the cycle of gully clearing is to be extended to once a year.
6. Street lighting.
   The lights on the bridge are to be repainted this summer.
7. Playground.
   Only one further contractor, "Monster Play" remains to give a price and a proposal and then the alternative proposals will be put before villeagers and the school will be approached for the reaction of the children.
8. 8. Public toilets.
   From 1 April the Council has taken over the responsibility for the public toilets. A cleaner from the village has been appointed. It is hoped that parishioners as a whole will keep an eye on the toilets and report any misuse. The non-emergency police telephone number to be used for such reports (and for general problems of bad behaviour around the village, including being subject to bad language in the street) is 0845 60 60 247.
9. Next meeting.
   The next meeting (including the Annual Parish Meeting) will be on Monday 11 May 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Sugden, Cty. Cllr Marshall and District Cllr. Crawford.
2. Public participation.
   As over 60 parishioners attended the meeting public participation was moved up the agenda.
   These parishioners had responded to a notice which had been widely circulated regarding Craven D.C’s. proposal to instal pay and display machines on North Street and West Street car parks. In the absence of the District Councillor there was a frank discussion about the villagers’ concerns about the impact on parking. The Chairman reported that in a conversation that day with a Craven D.C. employee he had been told that the “pay and display” proposal was not “a done deal”. The Chairman also reported that the Council had already written a letter of strong protest (about this and other grievances concerning Craven D.C.) to every Craven District Councillor. The Council agreed to keep the village informed of developments using its two notice boards. The majority of the residents left the meeting at the conclusion of this item.
   A resident who had been seeking the extension of double yellow lines on West Street asked for a report on progress. The Clerk will respond when he knows the answer.
   
3. Planning.
   The following applications were discussed and appropriate representations to Craven D.C. were agreed:
   (a) Tree work on the Village Hall car park;
   (b) Consent for tree work to clear around street lights;
   (c) A 17 bedroom extension to the Premier Inn at the Anchor;
   (d) Further alterations to a new house being built on Marton Road.
   
4. Street lighting.
   Members expressed dismay that there had still been no progress by the contractors on lighting the replacement the lamp standard at the top corner of Swire Croft. The Clerk is to contact them again.
5. Correspondence.
   Cllr. Smith reminded Members and parishioners that photocard driving licences are only valid for 10 years before renewal is required – even though the holder is normally licensed until the age of 70.
6. Local homes.
   Rural Housing Enabler, Sarah Close at Craven D.C., would like to hear from rural communities with a shortage of affordable housing or landowners looking at options available for development – tel. 01756-706148 – e-mail sclose(at)cravendc.gov.uk [Replace (at) with @]
7. NYCC Library Service.
   There is a free home delivery service available for books from the library. Books can be heavy! For details ask Sally at Gargrave Library or tel 01609-533800.
8. Public toilets.
   Members were to meet Peter Chapman of Craven D.C. in the following week to glean information necessary for the Council to take over the toilets.
9. The Clerk.
   Mr. A. D. Cockshott is to retire at the Annual Parish Meeting in May. Although interviews have taken place it has been decided to defer making an appointment of his successor until the autumn and to keep the applicants’ details on file until that time. The savings in remuneration over that period will go towards office equipment and any unforseen expenditure. Members will undertake the necessary clerical and administrative tasks unpaid for that period.
10. Next meeting.
    The next meeting will be on Monday 7 April 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllrs. Smales and Thomas, Cty. Cllr Marshall and District Cllr. Crawford.
2. Public participation.
   Two Community Police Officers from Grassington attended the meeting to report on various crime statistics for Gargrave. They reminded the council that the non-emergency number is 0845-6060247 and stated that there is a zero tolerance approach to nuisance behavious and language.
3. Correspondence.
   A letter had been received from Amey Mouchel expresing the hope that the Parish was not unduly inconvenienced by their work on the A65 east of Gargrave. The A65 was finally detrunked from 31 January 2009.
   A letter of concern was read out concerning the forthcoming auction of garages by Craven DC. The Council had not received any further information since the last meting.
   Craven DC have written to ask the Council if it would take over the public toilets by the Summer Seat. The estimated cost is some £9,000 p.a. After some discussion it was resolved to ask for further information and to protest that the questionwas posed after 20 January, the deadline for the council to submit its precept for 2009/10 – apparently another instance of poor management by Craven DC.
4. Planning applications.
   These concerned tree felling and pruning in the village hall car park and at various sites where street lights are obstructred. The clerk reported that the Counil is waiting for a reply to one more application before instructing a competent tree specialist to deal with the trees on its land.
5. Poor’s Lands Charity.
   Hugh Turner, the Chairman of the Trustees, reported that Bernadette Atckinson and Pam Southam had resigned as Trustees. He asked the Council to approve the appointment of Graham Thomson and Lynn Cuthbert as their replacements. This was approved.
6. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 2 March 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Perls.
2. Public participation.
   Questions were asked about the "burger van" which was in the area of the Green when the Hunt met there on Boxing Day. The clerk was asked to contact the Hunt to seek further information.
   The clerk is to contact North Yorkshire CC as the replacement lampost at Smith Croft has still not been conneccted to the power supply.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall led a discussion of the gritting problems which had arisen during December. She said that NYCC had not run out of materials as some had suggested and the very low temperatures had proved a significant problem for the County. Members asked if grit bins could be sited around the village. Cty Cllr. Marshall reported on the criteria for the installation of such bins.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall made a note of the overgrown shrubs which have blocked the verge which is the pedestrian route to and from the northbound platform at the station. She promised to inquire about getting NYCC to cut the shrubs back.
   
3. District Councillor's report.
   Cllr Crawford explained the siting of joint offices for Craven DC and NYCC at Belle Vue mills on a 999 year lease.
   
4. Correspondence.
   Craven DC has produced a list of its land and buildings, including rented garages, which are to be sold by auction during 2009, including the garages at Smithy Croft and Sharphaw View.
   
5. Planning applications.
   These concerned tree felling and pruning in the village hall car park and at various sites where street lights are obstructred. The clerk reported that the Counil is waiting for a reply to one more application before instructing a competent tree specialist to deal with the trees on its land.
   
6. Street lighting.
   The funds are available for the Council to fund NYCC in upgrading the lights along the A65 from pathway lighting to highway lighting when NYCC takes over responsibility for the A65 from the Highways Agency. NYCC will then take over responsibility for the lights along the A65 from the Council.
   
7. Playground.
   During the week comencing 9 December Cllr. Turner met the representatives of several suppliers of playground equipment at the playground to enable them to make proposals for the upgrading required.
   
8. Budget 2009/10.
   The Council held a Budget meeting on Monday 12 January as the precept request is due to go to Craven DC shortly. The precept for 2009/10 has been set at £32,000, a reduction of over 8% from 2008/09.
   
9. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 2 February 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
   

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr Perls and Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
2. Public participation.
   Beatrice Faulkner, the Village Pathways Officer, reported on a path near Butterhaugh Farm which has been blocked by a fence. She is in contact with the various parties involved. The Council thanked Beatrice for her dedication to this work including pursuing the long overdue fingerpost towards Kirk Sink.
3. Matters arising from the minutes of the meeting of 3 November.
   The Council apologised fro the inconvenience which has been caused by the process of cleaining the goit.
4. District Councillor’s report.
   Cllr Crawford reported on the Planning Committee meeting at Aireville School on the application for a wind farm. He was pleased to note that the cats’ eyes on the A65 have been replaced. Members asked several pertinent questions of him about the financial problems of Craven DC and made clear to him their views on these! He reported that the next full meeting of Craven DC is on 9 December.
5. Christmas lighting.
   The lights agreed had been erected that day by R&B Electrical. Robert Rushton has a few more Christmas trees to fit into flag pole holders on High Street bringing the total to 14.
6. Playground.
   The Council discussed the findings of the RoSPA report and agreeed to take up one of the quotes to remove certain life expired play equipment. Arrangements have been made for several different play equipment companies to visit the site within the next few weeks to provide quotes for replacement equipment.
7. Greetings.
   The Council sends every parishioner Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
8. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 5 January 2009 at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   No apologies were received as all members, Cty. Cllr. Marshall and District Cllr Crawford were present.
2. Public participation
   The Council formally thanked the WI for their tidy up efforts around the village. It also thanked those villagers who clean, tend and tidy various sites around the village.
3. County Councillor's Report
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall reported that the Little Red Bus is to be reinstated.
4. Correspondence
   Yet again letters are to be sent to those responsible for inappropriate parking on Damside.
5. Christmas lighting
   The Counil is to look into possible problems arising from the removal of the lights last year with a view to erecting the lights by the bridge again this year.
6. Bulk item refuse collection
   It was reported that, notwithstanding economies in Craven DC expenditure, free bulk item collection will continue.
7. Administrative clerk
   The Council is looking to appoint an administrative clerk from 1 April 2009 on the retirement of the current incumbent. Potential candidiates are invited to look out for the advert for the position.
8. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 1 December at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllrs. Perls and Smales.
2. Public participation.
   A representative of the group opposed to the proposed wind farm near West Marton gave an update and urged people to respond to the Planning Department at Craven DC.
   A parishioner complaineda bout cars parked on the pavement at the Hellifield end of High Street. The Chairman explained that if they cause an obstruction for pedestrians the police are the agency to contact.
3. County Councillor's Report.
   Cty. Cllr. Marshall reported on several new matrix road signs and urged the Council to request that one be used on Church Street. A discussion about the traffic problems on various roads in the village ensued.
   Questions were put to Cty. Cllr. Marshall about the process of determining the highway maintenance projects to be carried out and if the hedge and shrubs could be trimmed back beyond the end of the footpath on the approach to the far platform at the railway station.
4. District Councillor's Report.
   Cllr. Crawford discussed developments in conection with the proposed wind farm and the impact of the financial position of Craven DC and building work on its new offices on the future of Craven DC.
5. Correspondence.
   Paul Gilmore of NYCC Highways has written to explain where the new street lights are to be placed along the A65 in order to comply with highway regulations so that the Council can apply to have them adopted by NYCC when detrunking of the A65 takes place, now hopefully in January 2009.
6. Remembrance Sunday.
   The plans for 9 November were finalised.
7. Christmas lights 2008.
   It was decided that, in view of the bad weather over the Christmas period in recent years and the hard work which had been put into maintaining the lights, the Council will instal lights only in the Christmas tree near the War Memorial. It will also offer to provide Christmas trees, free of charge, to the owners of properties along High Street for those owners to instal their own lights in those trees. Those interested should contact the Clerk on 07788-100199.
8. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 3 November at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Thomas and Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
   
2. Public participation.
   A parishioner complained about the lack of machine cleaning of streets and pavements in the village. District Cllr. Crawford undertook to look into this.
   It was reported that the W. I. wishes to tidy and clear unsightly and overgrown areas of the village. The Council expressed its full support for this work.
   There was a general discussion about greenery overgrowing on to footpaths and byways. Residents are reminded that they have an obligation to cut back any of their plants, shrubs and trees which overgrow so as to block either pedestrians’ passage or the area lit by street lights.
   Another parishioner reported details about problems with late night/early hours noise and unruly behavious at the Summer Seat. Villagers are requested to report problems of this type to the police at the time of the disturbance or as soonas possible thereafter on the basis of “the more calls, the more response”!
   
3. District Councillor’s Report.
   Cllr. Crawford highlighted the work to start imminently on the bus station in Skipton. Bus service 580 between Skipton and Settle is to pick up and drop off in Skipton High Street and not in the bus station from Monday 7 September.
   
4. Accounts.
   The two RFOs were pleased to report that the external auditor has accepted the acounts for the year ended 31 March 2008. Information on these is to be placed in the Council’s two notice boards, as required by the regulations.
   From discussion of certain bills presented it was resolved to inspect work performed on its completion.
   
5. Street lighting.
   The Council is still awaiting the transfer of the A65 from the Highways Agency to North Yorkshire in order that the programme of renewals along the main road can progress.
   The replacement (in a slightly different place) of a lamp post which was partially removed in Swire Croft almost a year ago remains held up while the water authority’s underground plans for the area are located. The clerk was instructed again to contact the service providers concerned in order to progress this work.
   
6. Car for sale.
   A car for sale has again appeared on the grass verge of the A65 at the Skipton edge of the village. The chairman was instructed to contact Trading Standards, as advised in the latest edition of North Yorkshire’s newspaper.
   
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 6 October at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
   

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
   
2. Public participation.
   A resident of Church Street provided information about a petition with 50 names together with correspondence with NYCC regarding the speed of traffic entering and leaving the village on the various by-roads. He informed the Council that David Curry MP was supprortive of the petition and the council added its support.
   A member of the civic society mentioned the car for sale on the verge of the A65 at the Skipton end of the village. This was surely against the rules? The Chairman is to contact NYCC Highways on the matter.
   
3. Matters arising.
   The kissing gate at the Eshton Road end of the footpath from Meadow Croft has been erected.
   A further letter is to be sent to the residents of South Street who erected a swing in a tree on the Green to ask for the removal of the swing.
4. District Councillor's Report.
   Cllr Crawford spoke in some detail about the planning issues in relation to the proposed wind farm. Detailed technical information is to be made available for scrutiny by parishioners in the Parish Office in the Village Hall from 7 pm to 8 pm on Monday 18 August.
5. Correspondence.
   A bench in memory of Trace Aldersley has been made. It is proposed to place it in High Street near the pelican crossing. The Council nedorsed this proposal wholeheartedly. A letter has been received concerning horse rising on the Greens. The Council is to write to all riding stables in the vicinity explaining the rules and regulations for the use of the Greens.
   The school PTA raised over £1,000 from the Duck Race.
6. Planning.
   Jephson Housing are to be contacted again to object to the closure of a footpath on Neville Road.
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 1 September at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Turner.
    
2. Public participation.
   Questions were raised and discussion ensued concerning the blocking of a path between properties on Neville Road.
   
3. Accounts.
   An invoice from North Yorkshire CC for street lighting previously installed was presented by Cllr. Sugden and accepted for payment.
   
4. Planning.
   There was a general discussion about the trees in the Village Hall car park which included Members, parishioners and District Cllr. Crawford.
5. Playground.
   Members are to meet in the Parish Office at 7-30 pm on Monday 21 July to discuss a revamp of the playground.
6. Village Greens.
   The Clerk was instructed to write to a parishioner concerning a swing which has been erected in a tree on the Green on South Street.
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 11 August (NB not 4 August!) at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Perls.
    
2. County Councillor's report.
   (a) Paul Gilmore of NYCC will contact the Council within the next two weeks to take forward co-operation on the power supply for the street lighting (to secure the significant reduction in costs discussed previously).
   (b) The Aggregate Fund, managed in this area by the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, Is provided by companies which extract aggregates from the Dales. It is to benefit the communities affected by that activity. Applications will soon be open for grants from the funding for 2008/09. The intended upgrading of the playground is aprojet which may well secure funding from this source.
   (c) The Craven Area Committee meeting on 29 May took various decisions. Among these is the reconsideration of the pay and display system for North Street car park. The arguments put forward on behalf of the Council are threefold: (i) Gargrave is an important service village for Flasby, Eshton, Hellifield, New Brighton, Banknewton, Coniston Cold, Bell Busk and East and West Marton.; (ii) Gagrave is on the Pennine Way, A65, Sustrans cycle route 68 and provides the attractions of the Greens and the River Aire, all of which bring car borne visitors into the village.; (iii) the Police are worried that parking will increase in North Street and other nearby streets, in creasing the risk of collisions and conflict between pedestrians and vehicles. There will be complaints from residents, requests for on street parking restrictions and police enforcement. Continued free parking in the North Street car park would avoid these problems.
   The Council would like YOUR views on this - letters ASAP to the Clerk at 11, West Street, Gargrave, please!
3. Planning applications.
   An application has been received for the extension of the Co-op. Two specific concerns were raised. The proposal includes the resiting of the recycling bins over the wall gfrom the flats at Ivy House Gardens, i.e. very close to the bedrooms of both ground floor and first floor flats, with risks of noise at unsociable hours and of accumulation sof general rubbish and infestatons of pests, e.g. rats. It also includes the siting of condenser fans vey close to one particular adjoining property. These concerns are to be passed to the Planning Committee.
   
4. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 7 July at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.

 

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Smith. All other members of the Council were present together with Ct. Cllr. S. Marshall, Craven District Cllr. D. Crawford and about 25 parishioners.
2. After the minutes of the 2007 Annual Meeting were read and approved the Chairman gave his report. This included the cancellation of the 2007 Duck Race because of bad weather, the opening of the Parish Council's office in the village hall, the continuing growth in the usage of that office and the need for the village to engage with its young people in various ways.
3. Cty. Cllr. Marshall explained some of the intricacies and costs of waste disposal both now and in the future.
4. Cllr. Crawford told the meeting that Craven DC is now under Conservative control fot he first time in seven years.
5. There were no questions from the floor.

1. Mr. Emmottt from Friends of Craven Landscape briefly told the meeting avout the meeting to be held at the village hall at 8pm on Tuesday 20 May concerning the proposed wind farm development near Little Stainton.
    
2. A letter had been received from a parishioner expressing concern about the overhead power lines which cross the greens and the river. He provided information about the processes involved in diverting those lines underground.
    
3. Another parishioner had written to point out problems which have developed by the lower stepping stones in the recent bad weather.
    
4. Cty. Cllr. Marshall was asked to pass on concern about the continuing problem of flooding at the junction of the A65 and Raybridge Lane.
    
5. Cllr. Crawford discussed the new 40mph speed limits in the area and a High Court injunction on a plannning enforcement matter and its ramifications for Craven.
    
6. The 2008 Duck Race will take place on Saturday 12 July, weather permitting. Gargrave PTA rose to the challenge of organising it. All contact re car boot stalls, etc. should go to Shelagh Smith on 01756-748123.
    
7. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 2 June at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
    

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Smith.
    
2. Public participation.
   (a) Questions were asked about the B&B sign outside the Masons Arms. It was understood that the propietors know that they are required to apply for planning permission for that sign. No such application has yet been received by the Parish Council.
   (b) A parishioner asked again about the possibility of yellow lines outside the entrance to St. Robert's Court. The Council has received no reply on this from North Yorkshire.
   (c) Following a discussion about litter around the village all members of the Council and those members of the public present supported a decision to hold a "litter pick day" on Saturday 26 April meeting at the summer seat at 10-00 and covering as much of the village as possible.
    
3. County Councillor's report.
   The de-trunking of the A65 has been postponed from 1 April to 1 September because not all the processes necessary have been completed. Accordingly the Highways Agency rather than North Yorkshireh remains responsible for the time being.
    
4. Correspondence. NPower have notified the Council that the price of electricity for street lighting will rise by 21% in the year beginning 1 April. The Council had budgeted for an increase of 15%.
    
5. Playground.
   Unfortunately criminal damage and vandalism in the playground within the last few weeks have required police involvement. The expenditure on repairs required as a result of this damage is outside the Council's budget for 2008/09. This is in addition to repairs required as a result of previous damage to the fencing which will cost up to £2,000.
    
6. Next meeting.
   Villagers are reminded that the Annual Village Meeting will be on Monday 7 May at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall and will be followed by the next monthly meeting of the Council. Remember it is your Gargrave and your Council Tax money! Come along to have your say on how it should be spent!
    

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Sugden.
    
2. Public participation.
   (a) Questions were asked about the rules for installing yellow lines. Cty. Cllr. Marshall responded and Cllr. Wood said he would follow up the position.
   (b) There was a general discussion about daffodils and their protection from vehicles on West Street beyond Higherlands Bridge. Cty. Cllr. Marshall is to investgate the installation of reflector posts there.
   (c) Some parishioners voiced concern about illegal parking on pavements around the village. Pedestrians, prams and wheelchairs are boing forced on to the highway.
   (d) A parishioner explained a flooding problem on Marton Road near the Masons Arms. This has come about because the level of the highway has been raised over the years by successive resurfacing. Cty. Cllr. Marshall agreed that it posed a problem and agreed to inquire of NYCC Highways about remedies.
    
3. Correspondence.
   A letter has been received from NYCC to say that the Rights of Way Improvement Plan for North Yorkshire was formally adopted in October 2007. The plan is to improve the maintenance, management, promotion and creation of routes. General information can be found on the NYCC website and specific information can be requested by e-mail to paths@northyorks.gov.uk
    
4. Street lighting.
   The Council is eagerly awaiting the outcome of the meeting of Councillors with Mr. P. Gilmore of NYCC Highways and Cty. Cllr Marshall concerning the prospective adoption of the lights on the A65 by NYCC from the Council
    
5. Playground.
   The site meeting of Councillors on 1 March was discussed in the context of the lastest RoSPA safety report. The works requried by that report are to be carried out in the next few weeks and months.
    
6. Next meeting.
   The next meeting will be on Monday 7 April at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
    

1. Apologies
   Apologies were received from Cllrs. Perls and Thomas.
    
2. Co-option of a new Councillor
   Mrs. Janet Smales of Bridge House, Church Street, Gargrave was co-opted and welcomed to the Council.
    
3. Public participation
   (a) Warning signs referring to the overhead electricity cables had been erected by NPower on Middle Green and in the Plantation, both the property of the Council. It was reported that these were a requirement of Health & Safety regulations but it was agreed that there are too many of these signs.
   (b) There was a report of vandalism and attempted theft in and among gardens on North Street and Neville Road. Parishioners are urged to report such events to the Police on the non-emergency number, 0845-66-247, as every call is logged and, at the least, provides the Police with a fuller picture for future action.
   (c) There was a long discussion about the illegal deposits on Church Lane. Letters on the matter which had been received by the Council were referred to and parishioners from that area of the village joined the discussion. Cty Cllr. Marshall responded on the action taken by NYCC to date and Dist. Cllr. Crawford updated the Council as to progress on stronger enforcement procedures where planning orders have been made.
   (d) Unfortunately parishioners reported a wide variety of litter around the village. Johnson & Johnson are to be asked to request their employees not to leave litter when they come off the site for lunch or smoking breaks.
    
4. Matters Arising
   The Land Registry are looking at the status of the land near the Station House which has been discussed by the Council.
    
5. County Councillor's report
   (a) Cty. Cllr. Marshall had recently attended a meeting concerning plans for waste management and the siting of incinerators to generate electricity.
   (b) Road gritting procedures are under review. The depositing of piles of salt at intervals by the roadside is to be discontinued.
   (c) Cty. Cllr. Marshall has arranged a visit to Gargrave by a street lighting officer to meet members of the Council on Wednesday 13 February. This is to progress the proposal that NYCC Highways take over as many of the Council's street lights as possible.
    
6. District Councillor's report
   Cllr. Crawford expressed surprise that the parishioners of Gargrave had not been included in those notified of and invited to comment on the proposals for development by, inter alia, Homeloan Management Limited on Gargrave Road, Skipton and for the wind farm near Little Stainton. He outlined the system of ward boundaries and its application in such cases and is to inquire further about the lack of inclusion of Gargrave in the processes.
    
7. Accounts
   The cost of the Christmas lights for 2007 was £6,581-36. The income for this was £1,914-23. The council expressed its thanks for all the effort and support from the community and beyond. The shortfall is to be taken from the Windle bequest as it had been agreed in setting the 2007/08 budget that the cost was to be met through fund raising and that no part of that cost was to fall on the precept. Unfortunately the poor summer had led to the cancellation of the main fund raising event, the Duck Race.
   The Council resolved not to run the Duck Race in 2008 but instead to invite other organisations in the village to organise it under the auspices of the Council's small lotteries licence. No date was fixed for the event but organisations interested in using the event to raise their own funds are asked to contact either the clerk on 07788-100199 or Cllr. Turner on 748117.
    
8. River
   Work is to be carried out by the Council on the boundary of the Green by Goffa Mill to ease the flow of rainfall and surface water.
    
9. Correspondence
   The Rural Housing Association has a 2 bedroom bungalow available for rent at 4, Walton Close. Anyone interested should ring 08456-063033 to ask for an application form.
    
10. Next meeting
    The next meeting will be on Monday 3 March at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
     

1. Apologies.
   Apologies were received from Cllr. Perls, District Cllr. Crawford and Cty. Cllr. Marshall.
    
2. Co-option of a new Councillor.
   Brian Atkinson of 49, Neville Road, Gargrave was co-opted and welcomed.
   

   After the resigantion of Cllr. Woods at last month’s meeting there is a further vacancy. Parishioners interested in appyling are asked to contact the Clerk.

3. Public participation.
   Various parishioners reported that problems with horse droppings in pavements, walls collapsing on to pavements and cars and other vehicles abusing parking restrictions on the greens persisted.
    
4. Highway issues.
   The Highways Agency have reported to the Council that a new salt/grit bin is to be installed just off Marton Road near Walton Avenue. NYCC have responded to Cty Cllr. Marshall’s request of inspection of Church Lane and agreed to continued monitoring of muck on the road there.
    
5. Playground.
   It was agreed that Members would attend a site meeting at theplayground at 10 a.m. on 1 March 2008 to consider the work required in response to the recent ROSPA report.
    
6. Grass cutting.
   The early Easter in 2008 prompted a discussion as to whether the grass cutting contract should provide for an extra cut before the usual commencement. The matter was left to the Clerk’s discretion in the light of the weather.
    
7. 2008/09 Budget.
   A closed Budget meeting is to be held on Monday 14 January.
    
8. Correspondence.
   Craven D. C. have provided information about the charges to be introduced on the North Street car park. The charging period is to be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 7days a week. The car park will be added to those for which craven D. C. permits are valid. Otherwise the charges will be 50p for the first hour then in multiples thereof.
    
9. Next meeting.
   The next meting will be on Monday 4 February at 7-15 p.m. in the Village Hall.
    

1. Apologies.
   No apologies were received because all members and Distrcit Cllr. Crawford and Cty. Cllr. Marshall were present.
    
2. Co-option of a new Councillor.
   Janet Smales and Brian Atkinson had kindly put their names forward for consideration. A decision will be taken as to the co-option at the December meeting.
    
3. Public participation.
   Trees around street lights and general obstruciton were discussed. The Clerk was asked to co-ordinate any applications for permission from Craven DC for tree work.
   

   Mud and noxious substances on roads – parishioners were reminded that Section 148 of the Highways Act, 1980 states that “It is an offence to deposit anything on a highway. The Highway Authority may remove such deposits and recover the costs from the offender.”

   The boundaries of the Parish Council’s land were discussed. Parishioners were reminded that the area of the Greens includes the lane and area leading to the sewage treatment plant. Parking and horses are not allowed on the Greens.

   Several parishioners have expressed concern about horse riders whose animals mount and foul the footpaths in the village. This is illegal and the Clerk was asked to write to all the stables in the area of the village.

   Frustration was expressed at the slow progress of the work on upgrading street lights. This is in the hands of the contractor, North Yorkshire CC. Members agreed that progress has been furstratingly slow but that the Parich Council is doing everything it can to influence progress.

4. Report from Cty. Cllr. S. Marshall.
   She asked everyone to read their copies of the free North Yorkshire CC newpaper and to write as suggested there to voice their concerns about Post Office closures.
    
5. Report from Cllr D. Crawford.
   He reported on a debate at CDC on the price of the land for the Skipton Building Society development.
   

   He commended the representatives of the wind farm at Little Stainton on their efforts to make people aware of the benefits of this scheme.

   He reported that the scheme for Skipton bus station is going ahead as planned and that the controversial development at the Tempest Arms at Elslack is to be allowed to remain as it is.

6. Accounts.
   Accounts payable were approved.
    
7. Correspondence.
   Revised timing for the Skipton to Malham post bus from 19 October were reported.
   

   The first run is Skipton bus station dep 07-45 – Gargrave Eshton Road dep 08-00 – Malham Tourist Information Centre arr 10-56 and dep 12-25. Gargrave Eshton Road dep 13-02 – Skipton Bus Station arr 13-20.

   The second run is Skipton bus station dep 14-25 – Gargrave Eshton Road dep 14-38 – Malham Tourist Information Centre arr 15-12 and dep 15-15. Gargrave Eshton Road dep 17-20 – Skipton Bus Station arr 18-10.

   Full timetables are available at the Dalesman Café and the Library.

8. Remembrance Sunday, 11 November.
   The Vice –Chairman, Cllr. Syms, will represent the Parish Council Mrs. Ethnie Bannister will arrange for a poppy wreath.
    
9. Christmas lights fund raising event, Saturday 10 November.
   It can be reported that the approximate funds raised at this event were £1,200 but some receipts have not yet been counted. The Parish Council wishes to thank everyone involved in the fund rasising events on 10 November and throughout the year.
    
10. Next meeting.
    The next meting will be on Monday 3 December at 7-15 pm in the Village Hall.
     

Apologies were received form Cllr. Perls, Distrcit Cllr. Crawford and Cty. Cllr. Marshall. All other members were present.

Questions were asked about the timing of reconnection of the new street lights which have been erected. There was a general discussion about street lighting and the siting of new lamp posts.

The minutes of the meeting on 3 September were approved.

Bircage walk has been resurfaced within the last week. It was agreed to include replacement kissing gates in the 2008/09 budget.

Dog walkers were reminded to notify CDC if they find the dog bins full. If the bins are full and, as they should do, they have cleaned up after their dogs, they should take the “packages” home and dispose of them there. If they do not clean up after their dogs they are liable to fines up to £1,000.

Cllrs. Thomas and Smith explained the need tor a salt box on the slope leading to Walton Avenue and Riversway.

The external auditor has approved the 2006/07 accounts prepared by Cllrs Sugden and Turner, the Resposible Financial Officers. The accounts will be posted in the notice board as for previous years. Papers and documents to suport the accounts will be availble for memebers of the public to view by prior appointment at Kirk Syke, 19 High Street (Tel. 748117) on Mondy to Friday until 5 November.

Embsay with Eastby P.C. is seeking to employ a lengthman. If anyone is interested they should contact that Council direct.

Applications had been received in respect of:

• erection of a conservatory in West Street;
• various buildings in the garden at 54, Eshton Road;
• erection of a conservatory at the farm on Hellifield Road on the same side as the Anchor.

After discussion it was decided not to comment to CDC on any of these applications.

The Council reminds parishioneers that planning permission is required to work to be done on trees withint he Conservation Area. There are large fines for non-compliance. CDC will advise on the procedures involved.

Parishioners were reminded that the replacement event for the Duck Race will be held in the village hall on Saturday 10 November form 10 am to 3 pm. Items confirmed were tombola, Duck Race draw, silent auction, light lunches and a table top sale (for which it was reported that some vacancies remained).

The next meting will be on Monday 5 November at 7-15 pm in the Village Hall.

Cllrs. Thomas, Perls and Smith and District Cllr Crawford sent her apologies. All other members were present as was Cty. Cllr. Marshall.

A parishioner commented on the problems created by a number of new “A” boards which have appeared recently on High Street. They have made the pavement in places too narrow for wheelchair users to pass. The chairman undertook to look at the problem.

There was a general discussion about traffic mounting the pavements to park and parking on the zig-zag lines in High Street.

A decision was taken to include the renovation of the railings by the green along South Street in the 2008/09 budget. Cty. Cllr. Marshall suggested that funding be sought from the Aggregate Fund and will find out more details.

The Gormless is to have a “triple by-pass” and be given 3 new arms. The clerk was asked to find out the timescale for this work so that arrangements for the power for the Christmas lights to be taken from the Gormless are not prejudiced.

West Street – application 30-2007/7785 was considered. No comments were made.

Permission has been granted for work to save the maple tree on the Memorial green. Cllr. Sysm is to make contact with the tree surgeon to arrange for the work to be done.

Permission with 23 conditions attached has been granted for the erection of chalets/caravans in the plantation on Marton Road between High Mill and Paradise Cottages.

The Council can now co-opt a villager of 18 years old or more to replace former Cllr. Lancaster.

NYCC will re-tarmac the path to a width of 1.2 metres before the end of 2007. The path will be closed for about a week. Many of the residents along this path were thanked for maintaining their boundaries to a high standard.

The Duck Race of 2007 will waddle to the Village Hall on Saturday 10 November between 10am and 3pm. There will be games, tombola, a table top sale (£10 per table – contact Cllr. Turner (tel. 748117) to book), morning coffee and light lunches.

The Duck Race ticket draw will be held then but if anyone who has already bought a ticket wants a refund a counterfoil should be produced to Cllr. Syms.

Funds from this event are for the Christmas lights. A contractor for this was agreed. N Power’s bill for the electricity for the 2006 Christmas lights of £742-61 was received and payment was approved.

The meeting closed at 9-30pm

The next meeting is to be on 8 October 2007 (NB one week later than normal to allow the clerk’s attendance) at the Village Hall at 7-15 pm.

All members and District Cllr Crawford were present. Cty Cllr Marshall sent her apologies. With great regret the Council accepted the resignation by letter of Cllr. Andrew Lancaster because of work commitments. Tribute was paid to Cllr. Lancaster’s efforts for the village and for the Council since his co-option in 2006.

A resident of Goffa Mill thanked Cty Cllr Marshall and the Parish Council for their efforts in securing the completion of flood alleviation work at Goffa Mill. It is hoped that the work done will deal with most of the problem.

A parishioner asked about a tree which had been damaged in an accident in North Street car park. Cllr Crawford was asked to make inquiries about its reinstatement.

There was a long discussion about the continuing problem of vehicles being parked on the green at Damside despite prohibition notices. The Chairman undertook to visit the householder concerned.

The Clerk is to purchase permanent “no smoking” signs or arrange for the words to be stencilled on to the walls of the Summer Seat as the free signs issued by then Government had been stolen.

Cllr Crawford gave more details of the abortion of the scheme for a unitary council for North Yorkshire.

Monthly accounts were submitted and approved.

As well as information from various bodies about forthcoming meetings there were letters regarding vehicle parking on Damside and an offer of an office in the Village Hall for the Council to rent. After considerable discussion this offer was accepted.

Mr. Phil Ellis’s appointment as a trustee of the Gargrave Poor’s Lands Charity was approved. There had been a vacancy since the resignation of Rev. Rod Geddes.

With great regret a decision was taken to cancel the Duck Race for 2007 rather than rearranging it for September. The Council is to hold an event m in the Village Hall later in the year and the Duck Race tickets sold are to be included in a draw to be held then.

NYCC have been instructed to replace a number of street lights around the village at a cost of nearly £10,000. NYCC have not yet informed the Clerk of the likely date for the work to start.

An application has been made for alterations to a property on Damside. The Chairman is to discuss this when he visits the applicant to discuss the car parking issue.

An application has been made to erect chalets/caravans in the plantation on Marton Road between High Mill and Paradise Cottages. Several parishioners who live near the site aired their views. A number of Councillors had made a site visit in the previous week. The Council made comments on the boundary near the river, the entrance/exit planned, concerns about flooding and screening as the living rooms of the residents of High Mill are on the first and second floors of the building. The applicant was present and questions were put to him about whether he has considered environmental issues such as the use of lichen or turf roofs and solar panels and also tree conservation issues. He appeared to be open to suggestions in these areas. Residents were invited to write to CDC Planning Department to set out their own views and concerns in time for the consideration of the application which is scheduled for 23 August.

Members of the public were asked to leave to allow a discussion of a private matter and the meeting closed at 9-45 pm.

The next meeting is to be on 3 September 2007 at the Village Hall at 7-15 pm.

All members (including Cllr R. Thomas, newly co-opted) were present except Cllr Perls who gave his apologies. District Cllr Crawford and Cty Cllr Marshall were also present.

A parishioner suggested the use of “priority arrows” and corresponding road markings to ease the traffic problems at the “chicane” in Church Street.

Cty Cllr Marshall reported that the new Minister may change the Government’s approach to unitary authorities. She has also been told about procedural changes affecting requests for road repairs.

Cllr Crawford explained that CDC is responsible for enforcing the new no-smoking rules.

He reported details concerning the Gargrave Road site for Skipton building Society and for the proposed new building on the site for CDC to lease or purchase.

He reported on the issue of business rates being levied on certain sports clubs. They have been given one year’s grace to secure charitable status.

He reported on the position of the Auction Mart and the uses of its site.

A five year contract with Smith of Derby to maintain the clock and carillon at St. Andrew’s Church. Monthly accounts were submitted and approved.

Arrangements for the facility for members of the public to inspect the accounts and records of the Council for the year ended 31 March 2007 was agreed and details are to be provided shortly by a formal notice in the Council’s notice board.

A wide variety of correspondence had been received including a reply concerning a memorial plaque for Margaret Brothers at the Summer Seat.

Parishioners were advised to refer to the Council’s notice board for the map of proposed sewer work on the village greens.

NYCC have offered and the Council accepted the provision of white plastic posts for the verges on both sides of West Street beyond Higherlands Bridge.

Negotiations concerning the replacement programme are continuing.

Erosion below the lower stepping stones was discussed at some length. Cllr. Syms is to seek outside advice.

As agreed at the December 2006 meeting concerning the 2007/08 budget, the refurbishment of the fencing of the Plantation along South Street is to be explored further. Advice is to be sought form English Heritage as to the work to be done and from that appropriate contractors would be sought. It was reported that the fencing was erected as part of the celebrations of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

The Wheelie bin washing contractor has been asked to complete his cleaning contract on the site now that the other works have been completed. There was a long discussion concerning the fencing of the playground arising from a reported accident to a child on the cricket field site. The clerk is to contact the Paying Fields Association (of which the Council is a member) for advice on the fencing.

Various arrangements were concerned. The event is to be held on Low Green on Sunday 22 July. Applications for car boot sale stalls should be made to Cllr David Syms (tel 01756-749307) Donations of time and cakes are sought for the refreshment stall – please ring 01729-851914. Raffle prizes are requested – please bring on the day. Arrangements for entertainments are currently being finalised. The Council thinks you would be “quackers” to miss it! The proceeds are for the Christmas Lights appeal.

Risk assessments were discussed in connection with cutting the grass on the river bank and the filling in of a large pool in the river which is developing.

The Summer Seat is now a no-smoking area by law. The clerk was instructed to order and instal a notice to this effect on the Summer Seat.

Phone calls have been received locally asking for people for details of bank accounts and cards. This information should never be given to unknown callers. If you wish to do business over the phone dial the correct number yourself. If you are asked for this information you should tell the police at once. It would be helpful if you can obtain the unknown caller’s number by dialling 1471 when the call is over.

The next meeting is to be on 6 August 2007 at the Village Hall at 7-15 pm.

All members were present. District Cllr Crawford was also present. Cty Cllr Marshall gave her apologies.

Mr. Roland Thomas of Beech Cottage, Marton Road was co-opted as a member of the Council.

A parishioner asked for a larger or additional noticeboard to be made available in view of the volume of paperwork to be displayed by the Council. Currently the audited accounts for 2005/06 are on display in the noticeboard as required by law.

Parking on the grass near Damside was again raised and the Council again underlined its intention to enforce the prohibition. The Council would keep the situation under review.

No response had yet been received from NYCC concerning measures to prevent the destruction of daffodils by the occupants of vehicles parking on the far side of Higherlands Bridge in future years. Therefore the Council was not yet in a position to take up the kind offer of help from a parishioner.

On Cllr. Smith’s inquiry, Mr. Ray Bradley has confirmed that he holds the damaged part of one of the kissing gates. Mr. Bradley will provide the Council with a quote to complete the work on this gate.

Work along Chew Lane is ongoing. The safety equipment is still in the beck in spite of an e-mail from the Chairman.

Cty Cllr Marshall telephoned a response to queries when giving her apologies. Information from last month’s meeting about the small 30 mph repeater signs has been passed on to Mr. Chris Craven at NYCC.

He has also confirmed that work will be done on the grate near Goffa Mill within the next two months, but with no guarantees that the flooding problem would be eliminated completely.

Cty Cllr Marshall also requested a response from the Council regarding its view on the level of bus services. The Council expressed satisfaction with the level of services on weekdays but sought improvements to the weekend service.

Cllr Crawford responded to a question on the approach of a unitary authority that he believes “the die is cast” and it will go ahead.

He also commented on changes which have been made to the dog warden scheme.

The RFOs informed the Council that the internal audit for 2006/07 had been carried out and that the external audit can now proceed. Monthly accounts were submitted and approved.

A wide variety of correspondence had been received including letters asking for charitable donations and information concerning the new delegate appointed to the Craven DC Standards Committee.

Two applications on Marton Road had been received. The Council agreed its comments on specific concerns on one of these.

Progress on the programme of repair and replacement was discussed at some length.

Erosion below the lower stepping stones was discussed at some length. Cllr. Syms is to seek outside advice.

The state of the plane tree beyond the war memorial green was discussed. The Council is to seek advice from two consultants as to what action, if any, should be taken.

Various members reported on progress in planning the Duck Race on 22 July. It was agreed to book a marquee.

Cllr. Woods reported on continuing fund raising efforts. The Council agreed to purchase 20 collection boxes to be placed in shops in the village.

People in Craven have received hoax calls informing them that they have won £5-00 in a Spanish letters and asked for details of their bank accounts so that these accounts can be raided. You are strongly advised not to give such details over the phone, online or to callers at the door.

The next meeting is to be on 2 July 2007 at the Village Hall at 7-15 pm.

All members were present except Cllrs Sugden, Lancaster and Perls, each of whom who gave their apologies. Cty Cllr Marshall and District Cllr Crawford were also present.

The Chairman said that former Cllr Helen Handley, who had loved the village and life itself, would be sadly missed by all. It was agreed that the Council would send a donation in memoriam to a charity agreed by the family.

A villager commented on the concrete base for the Christmas tree which had been left between the "brackets" of the garden outside the Co-op and asked if it could be moved as it was unsightly.

(a) The Goffa Mill flooding problem had been discussed with NYCC. Cty Cllr Marshall agreed to get involved this month and make e-mail contact with a parishioner to try to resolve the problem.

(b) The Church Street speeding traffic problem was discussed. Health and Safety issues have been raised and the matter is being pursued with this location now being on the list for the use of the temporary speed warning sign.

Cty Cllr Marshall reported on the process now in progress to create a unitary authority. A Councillor remarked that the approach of a unitary authority should remove the need for a new building for Craven DC on the green field site off Gargrave Road in Skipton.

Cllr Crawford gave more details on the approach of an unitary authority, including timescales.

Application 30/2007/7260, 7270, 7255 and 7299 - no comments made on these applications except a discussion about the Wooler building site on the junction of Skipton Road and East Street. The names proposed by the developer for the three houses are "Police house", "Sharphaw House" and "Butteraugh House".

Mrs. B. Faulkner, the Parish Footpath Officer, reported on the response to the public consultation on the Kissing Gates conundrum. She and various Councillors pooled the information passed to them.

Mrs. Faulkner thanked the villagers who had taken the time to answer the question and would inform NYCC Pathways Dept. that the village wishes to keep the Kissing Gates in situ and reinstate the one at the Eshton Road end of the path. Cllr. Smith is to contact Ray Bradley as he thinks the damaged gate is located at the premises of Bradley Engineering.

Plans for the fund raising light lunch on Easter Saturday, 7 April in the Village Hall were finalised. It was hoped that there would be a good turn out from the village.

The next meeting is to be on 14 May 2007 at the Village Hall - AGM followed by the Annual Parish Meeting.

All members were present except Cllr Sugden and also County Cllr Marshall, each of whom who gave their apologies. District Cllr Crawford was also present. The Clerk was absent through illness.

The Chairman said that former Cllr Mavis Thomas would be sadly missed throughout the village and passed the respects of the Council to her family.

Ongoing problems of litter were again discussed. A parishioner suggested a grand litter pick by all groups and societies within the village.

A resident of Goffa Mill explained the flooding problems and the Chairman agreed to go round to inspect the problem and contact NYCC Highways to seek a solution.

Mrs. B. Faulkner, the Parish Footpath Officer, gave a comprehensive report on the public footpaths within the parish.

New stiles had been installed on the footpath to Bell Busk parallel to Mark House Lane. Thanks were expressed to Brian Moorhouse, the farmer of that land who had arranged and funded the work.

On the Pennine Way southwards form the Old School House to Mossber Lane self closing gates had been installed with the approval of the farmer, funded by NYCC and using volunteers from the Ramblers' Association.

On Mark House Lane NYCC had undertaken some drainage work.

The Kissing Gate Conundrum - Along Birdcage Walk NYCC will resurface the badly worn path but want a decision from the Council about the Kissing Gates before they do this.

• Retain the existing gates
• Replace them with hand gates
• Remove them altogether

If the path is to be kept gated it was proposed that the gate at the Eshton Road end be reinstated.

If the Kissing Gates are to be removed they might be resited somewhere else, perhaps on the Greens.

The council would like public reactions to these proposals. The Kissing Gates where they are are impassable for buggies and wheelchair users.

Please contact YOUR Parish Council before the next meeting on 2 April!

Cllr Crawford responded to questions about the prospective charges on the North Street car park but could not provide more details at this stage.

A letter concerning shared ownership housing.

A family from Rochdale asked to place a commemorative bench in memory of their parents. This was approved.

The Annual Parish Meeting followed by an ordinary meeting of the Council is to be on 14 May at 7-00 pm.

Confirmation of a motor rally passing through the village on 22 April - no timing was provided.

A Blood Donor vehicle is to visit Johnson & Johnson on Monday 19 March and existing Donors and those wishing to become Donors will be welcome.

Craven Tennis Club have written to the Council at the suggestion of Craven DC to ask for a donation towards tennis equipment for the use of all Junior School children (not just club members). The Council resolved to donate £150.

Application 30/2007/7155 - bedrooms extension at the Anchor Inn - passed by Craven DC on the day of this Council meeting.

Application 30/2007/7115 - Kelber Hill Farm (opposite the Anchor Inn).

Application 30/2007/7186 - Holme Farm - alterations to farm buildings for alternative agricultural use.

Application 30/2007/7159 - 9, Old Hall Croft - tree work

Application 30/2007/7173 - 7, Old Hall Croft - tree work

No comments were made about any of these applications.

More details were thrashed out by Cllr Woods, other members of the Council and members of the public for the fund raising light lunch proposed for Easter Saturday, 7 April in the Village Hall. This will include a raffle, sponsor a light bulb and Parish Council surgery.

"Youngsters to Codgers" - a general discussion as to its remit. More information to be provided later.

A plaque in memory of Margaret Brothers was discussed. Cllr Turner agreed to liaise with the family.

The playground was discussed at some length. It was agreed that Cllrs should go to visit other playgrounds - the playground is a long term investment of time, energy and money.

Saga of the Dead Sheep in the River - Cllr Syms outlined the complexities of dealing with public bodies when trying to get something done! Cllr Crawford will make further inquiries as to the procedures for disposing of dead sheep - however the Sheep has disappeared!

Neighbourhood Watch notified the Council that trailer thefts have been reported in the area. Please be vigilant and report any suspicious incidents to the Police.

In and around Skipton and in neighbouring counties windows of unoccupied parked cars have been broken by missiles fired by catapult from an unknown moving vehicle. A bus window was broken in the way in Lancashire. Please pass any information to the Police quoting incident number 1070490461.

The next meeting is to be on 2 April 2007 at the Village Hall.

All members were present except Cllrs Perls, Smith and Sugden and also District Cllr Crawford, all of whom who gave their apologies. County Cllr Marshall was also present.

There was a general discussion about the smoking ban at Johnson & Johnson. Cigarette ends in large amounts were reported at various sites along Airebank Terrace, The Chairman is to speak to a representative of Johnson & Johnson.

A parishioner queried the wording of last month's minutes concerning a request for a recycling bin for plastic. This led to a discussion on the state of the recycling area behind the Co-op. The Clerk is to write to Craven D.C. and copy the letter to the management of the Co-op.

Cty Cllr Marshall has been in touch with various agencies concerning the satnav problems previously discussed.
She was sad to report that Craven D.C. has resolved to introduce charges with a Pay & Display unit on North Street car park during 2007/08. Gargrave is the only village in Craven where this will occur in 2007/08.
Cty Cllr Marshall also gave the meeting further information on forthcoming changes to the network of Post Offices.

Audit papers and information for 2005/06 was presented to the Council and accepted. This included a map of the land in the village owned by the Council, including those parcels of land which local people have maintained. The Council expressed gratitude for the civic pride of those people but placed on record its continued ownership of those sites. They may be required in future, e.g. for lighting or signage.

This is to be held on Sunday 22 July 2007.

A letter regarding speeding traffic on Church Street.

Notification of a car rally passing through Gargrave at some time during Sunday 15 April.

Notification from the Rural Housing Association that a shared ownership home at 15, Walton Close is for sale. Information is available to interested parties from Liz Fitzsimmons on 01462-274-2099.

A request from Gargrave Bowling Club for financial assistance towards the cost of new floodlighting. A representative of the club is to be invited to attend the next meeting of the Council to discuss this.

Craven D.C. has reviewed the use of their garage sites at Sharphaw View and Smithy Croft. This use is to continue and be reviewed in two years' time.

The lower age limit for Parish Councillors was clarified. Until May 2007 it is 21. From then it is 18. Interest in serving as Parish Councillors from young people eligible would be welcomed by the Council - likely to be an advantage for a future CV!

It was reported that a tree to commemorate the life of Richard Whitelock has been planted on the green.

A letter setting out ideas for a Travel Plan for journeys to and from the school.

Each of a wide variety of quotes which had been received was carefully considered and the Council chose a contractor. The Clerk was to write to inform successful contractor and the unsuccessful ones of the Council's decision.

It was reported that the WI had been informed by the Police that recently bogus Water Board officials have called at four separate addresses and gained access to people's homes. Villagers are asked to check the identity of any caller and refuse admission if in doubt. Contact the police on 0840-6060-247 to report any incident of this kind.

Cllr. Woods agreed to investigate the possibility of an event to raise funds for this year's Christmas lights. "It is later than you think!" she said. She has since reported that the Village Hall has been booked for Easter Saturday, 7 April - soup, stall and refreshments will be available.

The next meeting is to be on 5 March 2007 at the Village Hall.