The Council met on Thursday 21st January 2016 and discussions began with the Police Community Support Officer discussions issues relevant to our area. These included incidents on the border of the parish area and the initiatives surrounding drink and drug driving over the December month leading and over Christmas. These included a 20% increase over the corresponding period in 2014.
It was also highlighted that fish sellers were noticed in the area and it was agreed that vigilance would be needed by all to ensure that these were genuine.
A discussion introduced by the Chairman, which followed on from last months meeting regarding CCTV cameras. The proposal is to place these around the North Hambleton district ward on private land and property. The council will undertake to assist with the purchase of the necessary CCTV equipment and make the necessary claim for reimbursement from NYCC.
There were a number of continuing maintenance issues and these include the toilets the churchwall and the repairs to the Bus Shelter remain outstanding.At West Halsey, trees were blocking a footpath but it was reported that this is in hand to be sorted out by the land owner; the steps up to the catholic church were causing problems in the bad weather and it was agreed that this be investigated further and there were a number of water leaks due to bad weather which were being attended to and the Pinfold water leak had been repaired but more work was still required to ensure that this is completed.
A village collection to place a commemorative bench for Mr and Mrs Holmes had been made and the parish council had been asked to agree a suitable site for this and it was agreed to place the bench near The Old Hall (Catholic Church).
Planning applications were received from two Osmotherley village properties, one from Sowerby under Cotcliffe and one from Winton and these were supported in principal.
Finally it was noted that the Tour de Yorkshire cycle event was coming through part of the parish area and Hambleton Council were coordinating efforts in the region to support the event which will have full to coverage this year. Farmers were encouraged to dress fields accordingly to promote the locality.
The next meeting is scheduled to be Thursday 18th February at 7:30pm.