PRESENT: Adam Massey (Chair), John Biggar, Doug Crew,Gordon Ferguson,
Lynn Ferguson, Scott Tait, George Thom, Doreen Biggar (Treasurer)
APOLOGIES: Sid Huddart, Graeme Wilson
INATTENDANCE: Gwen Crew
MINUTES OF MEETING held on 2nd February 2022:The following amendments required: Lynn wished it noted that Thanks to Gordie for his years of service to the Feuars’ Council.
Gwen requested that the Minutes regarding Platinum Jubilee Celebrations should state a Donation towards the cost of Toilets not 50% as minuted. John apologised but someone at the meeting clearly stated a %.
With these amendments minutes were agreed on adoption by S Tait,
Seconded by L Ferguson.
MATTERS ARISING:
- Petanque: Sid not present but it was noted this was progressing with planning application submitted. Action: Sid (Gwen)
- Monument Railings and Inspection:Action: John to contact Dr William Napier to enquire with regard to possible funding from Historic Environment Scotland.
- Plot 1 update:George reported as follows: Andrew Jepson, Scottish Archaeological Society and members of Hawick Archaeological Society inspected the shed prior to demolition. Apart from some Roman Numerals on timber nothing seen related to Stobs Camp. They requested corrugated roof sheets were checked on the underside for any insignia. They reiterated no objection to demolition.
Bat Licence conditions complied with before demolition. Suspected Roost Areas hand stripped. Four Bat Boxes fixed to nearby trees. Thanks to Graeme.
22/02/2022: Contractor Robert Catlin started work. Corrugated Roof Sheets removed first and checked for markings. None found. Sheets not of an age related to Stobs.
24/02/2022: Works completed by contractor and joint inspection of site carried out.
Steel Cupboard installed to protect meter and incoming Electric Cable for future use.
I propose that the site be protected by a fence to prevent access across the uneven surface and drop and hope this also deters Fly Tipping.
02/03/2022: Scott and John tidied-up site and removed debris to Hawick Recycling Centre.
With regard to Fencing Doug stated that as in a Conservation Area planning approval would be required. George checking with planners fully explaining the circumstances and reasons for requiring fencing. Action: George
Minutes of Meeting held on 02.02.2022 cont’d:
Matters Arising cont’d:
- Dean:Adam reported Graeme progressing well with consultation. He also reported on his discussion with Malcolm Robinson of Tilhill regarding removal of Sitka Spruce from the Dean, hopefully later this year. I will forward for your reference correspondence from Malcolm which explains this in more detail.
Adam to liaise with Graeme and proceed as required.
John stated that on his discussions with Insurers they asked questions on Woodland and he feared in view of recent storms cost of PL Insurance may be increased.
There was also some discussion on Forest School use of Dean. The view was that permission not required as the only liability that could fall back on us was any negligence as Landowners.Organisation and supervision of anyvisit was the full responsibility of the Education Department. Action for the Dean:Adam
- Community Safety: Adam stated clearly he was working on an edited Risk Assessment. Action: Adam.
- Fisherman’s Car Park Area: It was noted Steps now repaired satisfactorily. Thanks to Community Council for assistance in speaking with SBC. Doug stated it should be Fisherman’s Car Park Steps not Area.John checked Minutes which were correct, he agreed Agenda stated Area only.
- Maintenance Plan:Sid not present left for further discussion.
- SCIO/Constitution: John reported on his meeting with Frances Stuart and notes circulated. A Meeting to be arranged with Frances for 24th March 2022. Venue to be arranged. Action: John liaising with Frances
- Web Site: Adam stated this now set up. Some members having problem getting into site but after explanation easily rectified. He also said cost of setting up was £84 with £120 per annum thereafter. Doug Crew questioned the amount but it was noted this was discussed and agreed at last meeting. Minute from this meeting was agreed earlier.Action:Adam
CAR BOOT SALES: It was noted that Rob Armstrong due to the many complications no longer wished to be involved. There were considerable discussions, John reporting our Insurance Company views with regard to the organisation that such events had to be under our full control for PL Insurance to be valid.
Doug commented on event charging stating that we agreed a straight £100 charge for all events. This was disputed by both Secretary and Treasurer. Minute of this from our August Meeting annexed.
From Minutes of Meeting held on 04.08.2021
GREEN EVENTS:
- Charging for events: This led to considerable discussion and very difficult to fix a sensible tier system.
Some discretion would be required but obviously some village events would incur no charge. Charges possibly £50 for certain local events and £100 for larger fund-raising events
This was agreed but discretion to be shown.
Minutes of Meeting held on 02.02.2022 cont’d:
Car Boot Sales cont’d:
John following what he felt at times was unnecessary comments on recording of notes decided that he could no longer continue in this capacity.
Lynn agreed to take notes for the rest of the meeting.
It was agreed no car boots will be held at present.
Discussion on Jimmy Guthrie Run chargeto be added for discussion at next meeting.
RIDE OUT:Toilets discussed. It was noted John had agreed these with Northernloos (Lakeloos) at a cost of £1150 inclusive of VAT. Community Council wishing to use 4/5 Units on the Friday offered a very acceptable donation of £450 towards the cost although they were unsure if full funding for Jubilee event would be forthcoming. Community Council to contact SBC regarding Bins. Hopefully no charge. Parking Charges for the Saturday agreed at £10 per car Plus £5 for Gazebos.
Action: Adam/Doreen (Treasurer) Community Council and other council members for more detailed discussion at next meeting.
PICNIC ON THE GREEN: It was noted a letter of application for use of the Green was required. This dealt with between John and Shirley hopefully full funding would be received. Gwen asked the Feuars to consider space on the Green for a Jubilee Bench.
Action: Lynn regarding Risk Assessment
Full discussion at next meeting.
REGISTRATION OF FEUARS’ LAND: This seen as necessary particularly if changing to SCIO.
Scott Tait already looking at this, the requirement of Charles Rickett seen as necessary and if John hopefully continues as Tenancy contact with solicitors, they will work together on this.
Action: Scott/John
URGENT BUSINESS:
- Use of Green:Julie Patterson requested use of Green on 27th May 2022 and 8th October 2022 for Junior Football and Rugby Events. This agreed by Council.
- Hand Ba’:Cheque to be given by Community Council as share of Hand Ba’ in conjunction with Feuars. Action: Doreen/Scott
OTHER BUSINESS:
Secretary: George wished to say that he hoped John would continue as a council member and continue to assist in the avenues he has had much involvement. He continued to say that his knowledge and enthusiasm to carry out his duties for DF & HC had been incredible. Time spent at meetings only been as small part of the work carried out. The effort and thought to try and arrive at correct balance was hopefully appreciated.
DATE OF NEXT MEETINGS:
Thursday, 24thMarch 2022 to Discuss SCIO/Constitution Sub Committee Venue to be confirmed. This now confirmed as Auld Cross Keys, Denholm at 7.00pm
Wednesday, 20th April 2022 in Village Hall at 7.00pm.
The meeting closed with a Vote of Thanks to the Chair.
The Meeting continued to discuss in private Individual Tenancies. Notes attached.
