Millom Town Council
Millom Town Council was formed in 1974 when the parish boundaries changed from Cumberland.
Present: Mayor Cllr Angela Dixon (AD), Cllr Ruth Peter (RP), Cllr Janice Brown (JB), Cllr Barbara Crellin (BC), Cllr Tess Fitzwilliam (TF), Cllr Jenn Jakubowski (JJ), Cllr Richard Pattinson (RPat), Cllr Graham Brace (GB), Cllr Simone Faulkner (SF), Cllr Tony Dixon (TD), Cllr Rebecca Cummings, Cllr Ged McGrath (CBC), Sam Woodford (CBC Conservation Officer), Clerk Vicky Bradley, Asst Clerk Cath Jopson, and 1 member of the public.
Apologies received from Cllr D Billing, Cllr R Kelly and Cllr S Carter.
Cllr Angela Dixon stated that the council should continue progressing. There are many upcoming changes, including a potential office move. A visit is planned to the old Home Group offices on 12th March at 10am for consideration as office space—all councillors and clerks are welcome.
Cllr Dixon plans to review previous minutes to ensure actions were carried out by the appropriate members and to address any incomplete items.
Meetings with Gillian Elliott discussed a possible office share with CBC at the Hub and to follow up on Haverigg Main Street resurfacing, expected during summer holidays.
The Mayor raised concerns about the A&R and sub park committees and proposed combining them to avoid duplication. The clerk will send A&R agendas only to relevant members.
The Towns Bid Board met again. The regeneration officer post has been advertised and will be employed by MTC with reimbursement from CBC. There are currently no formal government guidelines regarding the bid; these are expected around Easter, with the bid to be submitted by summer. Funds may be distributed based on town population. Catherine Little (CBC) is the contact person. Upcoming meetings: Working Group (16th March), Towns Board (9th March).
None received.
To enable Sam Woodford (CBC Conservation Officer) to return home earlier, this agenda item was moved forward. Mr. Woodford presented an overview of the conservation plan consultation for Millom from 3rd March to 31st March 2020. Due to limited information in the current design guide, the review is essential. Online and paper versions will be available at the Library and Millom Hub. A drop-in session is scheduled at Millom Library on 17th March—all are welcome.
Mr. Woodford left the meeting.
Cllr T Dixon noted a typo and that ward inspection actions would be addressed under item 16. Cllr J Brown proposed, and Cllr T Fitzwilliam seconded the approval of the minutes. Cllr A Dixon signed as a TRUE record. All AGREED.
Cllr J Brown proposed, and Cllr A Dixon seconded. Cllr J Jakubowski (as subcommittee chair) signed as a TRUE record. All agreed.
Cllr R Cummings asked for clarification that this committee would be combined with A&R. AGREED.
No updates had been received by the clerk.
Cllr G McGrath apologised for his absence due to family reasons. He provided an update on Footway Lighting proposals, opposing responsibility transfer to parish level. He believes it should remain in the borough budget, possibly with a minor increase for maintenance.
He mentioned impending devolution and governance changes in the county, potentially reducing districts from 6 to 2 and prompting early elections. The Mayor of Copeland is holding a Social Inclusion meeting this week.
Cllr McGrath responded to the council’s concern about Copeland Councillors’ attendance, stating he covers 8 parish councils. He suggested draft minutes and communications be shared with all five Copeland Councillors. Action: Clerk to e-mail draft minutes and cc letters to CBC reps.
Cllr J Date is working on pump issues. Cllr McGrath discussed the Copeland Centre PFI limitations and potential to buy out the £1.7m/year contract to improve sub-letting options. Currently, Sellafield occupies some space, but much remains unused.
The chair thanked Cllr McGrath for his attendance.
Cllr Peter reported that the current youth councillor has stepped down. The school is now considering other applicants, possibly two. Cllrs Peter and Kelly to meet the candidates upon Cllr Kelly’s return. Action: Clerk to arrange meeting.
One application received for Holborn Hill ward vacancy. All AGREED to co-opt Mr Simon Donnelly. Action: Clerk to arrange Acceptance of Office and Declaration of Interest.
Cllr T Dixon proposed adoption of Denise Burness’s document as a working plan. It aligns with Copeland Vision 2013–2028. All AGREED to adopt.
Cllr T Dixon noted current procedures are not always followed. Question raised about permissible amendments under NALC rules. Action: Clerk to seek advice before changes made.
Home Group update shared. Agreement to relocate shrubs/plants to Millom Park with possible assistance from HMP Haverigg. Bats have been found in two areas, causing delays.
Cllr Pattinson contacted the enforcement officer regarding dog fouling. The officer visits Millom weekly on unspecified days and will liaise with Cllr Pattinson. Extra bins and more frequent emptying requested.
Cllr Pattinson will attend the Climate Change Support Workshop on 13th March and report back.
Cllr T Dixon created a working template for ward inspections. Quarterly localised reports are to be compiled with photos and submitted to the clerks. Trial period proposed. All AGREED. Action: Clerk to email for ward get-togethers and amend spreadsheet.
Finance Committee met with Dream Landscapes regarding future contract. Estimated cost: £16,060/year for Millom, Haverigg and the Cenotaph (no change from last year) for a 4-year contract. Herbicide cost clarification requested. Discussion on cost reduction if park redevelopment proceeds. All AGREED. Action: Clerk to contact Dream Landscapes and arrange contract.
Cllr A Dixon reported all applications route through CBC. She and Jakki Moore will conduct interviews. Clarification sought on employment and reimbursement agreements. Action: AD to seek advice.
Update and adoption of the following policies:
All AGREED. Chair to sign after typing amendments. Action: Clerks to amend.
None received.
It was RESOLVED that the accounts presented be passed for payment.
Cllr J Brown and Cllr T Dixon approved. AGREED.
Cllr Brown asked whether CBC staff could relocate to Home Group offices if suitable for MTC. To be reviewed after 12th March visit.
Meeting closed at 20:58pm
V Bradley, Clerk
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