PONT VALLEY NETWORK

Minutes of the meeting held at Dipton Club on 18 th January 2016

In attendance: D Marrs, B Bell, M W Jones, J Stoddart, S Cowley and M Briggs.
Apologies for absence: I Jewell, M Jones, C Chirnside.
The Chair opened the meeting, minutes were not agreed at that time but will be
retrospectively.
Wind Turbine - Objections
The group discussed whether they were against the turbine, or in agreement. It was
considered that there would be no objection provided that there would be tangible local
benefits for such as the keeping of rights of way. It was therefore decided that DM contact
G White representatives to hold a meeting to discuss precisely what would be required.
No objections would be put forward until the meeting had been held and the relative
matters discussed.
The treasurer confirmed that the Groundwork cheque had been cleared.
Fun Day
At the last meeting it was decided that bat boxes instead of bird boxes could be added to
the list as well as insect catchers to attract the nature interest for children. Laura, Wildlife
trust to be contacted for her input. BB has applied for more seeds for schools and It was
agreed that on receipt the distribution should be extended to Burnopfield and Tanfield
schools.
Any other business
As there was no further business the meeting closed at 8.15.

Date of next meeting 1st February, 2016

WIND TURBINE MEETING - 22ND January 2016

This is not meant to be part of the minutes, just a quick update as to how the
meeting went.
Meeting held at David's house at 9.30 on 22 nd January 2016.
Two members of G White, D Marrs, MW Jones, C Rocke, and M Briggs
This is my informal outlook on the meeting as Carol took more defined notes.
The meeting began with us being told that UK Coal have no funds as most of the bonds
they had for restoration work have been called in. Think that was to allay our fears of
mining in the valley or to sway the turbine project. (my opinion)
David when on to ask had they heard of Land of Oak and Iron. The answer was no.
He then went on to advise them of the amount of funding that they have for the valley and
the various projects that will be carried out. Then discussion took place regarding the
wagon ways and the pathway from Bradley to Burnopfield.
Outcome
Talks to owner of the land and highways to see what can be done to achieve the aims of
PVN and Land of Oak and Iron. The 5,000 community money was then discussed.
Another issue that will be dealt with at a later date. They were made aware of the various
activities that are ongoing in the valley and our wish to see it remain as unspoilt as
possible.
Restoration
25 years.
Some type of legal agreement to be given as to the conditions required.
The meeting was very amicable and it seemed that much will be done to achieve our
requirements. It was all in all quite an agreeable result.
A letter to be sent to PVN (DM) in the next two weeks.

A big thanks to Carol for minuting the meeting