THE parish council met on Monday, March 12 in the village hall. The following planning applications were discussed. Installation of a quarry wheel wash at Mepal Quarry, Block Fen Drove, Mepal. Certificate of lawfulness granted for change from agricultura

THE parish council met on Monday, March 12 in the village hall.

The following planning applications were discussed. Installation of a quarry wheel wash at Mepal Quarry, Block Fen Drove, Mepal.

Certificate of lawfulness granted for change from agricultural to domestic use, Hiams Farm, Chatteris Road, Mepal. Appeal against refusal of planning permission for erection of 500mm wire netting trellis on wooden posts above 1900mm high boundary fence (retrospective) at 2 Chestnut Way, Mepal.

Mrs Stazicker reported that the clerk's annual appraisal has been conducted by her and Mr Green. The clerk's performance was deemed to be satisfactory and it was recommended and approved that a salary increase of one point, as per the terms and conditions of employment, is implemented with effect from April 1, 2007.

A review of draft documents for a disciplinary and dismissal procedure, grievance procedure and complaints procedure was undertaken. Thanks were extended to Mr Stacey for producing these documents. Following discussion, all councillors agreed that these procedures should be adopted by Mepal Parish Council.

It was agreed that the theme for this year's Annual Parish Assembly on April 30 should be the production of the Community Parish Plan. A flyer and posters will be produced advertising the details. Our Community Police Liaison Officer will also be asked to attend.

The parish council has been approached by a group of youths from the village who would like to build a basic dirt BMX track on the recreation field. Funding for the project is available via East Cambs District Council and the Fenland Youth Bank.

The group require the support of the parish council to proceed with the funding application and also require permission to use a section of the recreation field. Mr Stacey agreed to investigate the insurance implications. It was moved Mr Stacey, seconded Mrs Stazicker and resolved unanimously that the project be supported.

Community Life Awards 2007 - it was agreed that Mepal would not enter this competition. Resources are already fully committed to other on-going projects.

The next meeting of Mepal Parish Council is on Wednesday, April 18 at 7.30pm in Mepal Village Hall. All meetings are open to members of the public and those interested in local issues are welcome to attend.