The Council met on 20 July 2009. There was no call for an election following the resignation of Councillor Mrs Bennett and after discussion it was agreed to invite Mr Nigel Brown to become a co-opted member of the Council.

It was noted that the Borough Council had refused a planning application for a major agricultural holding on Swindon Lane, and that appeals against refusal of permission had been made in respect of a swimming pool at Kirkby House and the conversion to residential use of the water tower off Drury Lane, Pannal.

Members considered a number of applications to divert footpaths between Spofforth and the village and decided to support the proposals subject to adequate signing and way marking being provided.

The Chairman reported on the meeting that had been called by the Borough Council to consider the Conservation Area and a report on the various issues raised at the meeting was awaited.

A complaint had been received that the post box near the school had insufficient capacity, but in the absence of any supporting complaints it was agreed to check other residents’ views.

In Dunkeswick, the County Council has agreed to complete a number of long outstanding minor highway works and it is anticipated that the 30 mph speed limit on Weeton Lane will be implemented in late August/early September.

The next meeting of the Council will be on Monday 16 November in the school hall, starting at 8.00 pm and residents are invited and welcome to attend.