Fiona

Explanation of variances 2024-25

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Name of smaller authority: GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL

County area (local councils and parish meetings only: DEVON

Please provide full explanations, including numerical values, for the following:

  • variances of more than 15% between totals for individual boxes (except variances of less than £200);
  • a breakdown of approved reserves if the total reserves (Box 7) figure is more than twice the annual precept/rates & levies value (Box 2).
Section 22023/24 £2024/25 £Variance £Variance %Detailed explanation of variance (with amounts £)
Box 2 Precept or Rates and Levies    9,30710,139-832-8.94n/a  
Box 3 Total other receipts      1,1194,127-3,008-268.8GPC received two VAT rebates in 2024-25 totalling £833.20, but no VAT rebates in 2023-24.  GPC was reimbursed in 2024-25 by EDDC through S106 funding for an outdoor ping pong table, £3,079.  The table was purchased in 2023-24. 
Box 4 Staff costs        3,5903,541491.36The NALC recommended salary scales for the previous tax year were delayed, and then implemented and backdated in 2023/24.
Box 5 Loan interest/ capital repayments      NILNIL    NIL    NIL    n/a  
Box 6 All other payments      11,2825,6575,62549.86
In 2023/24 GPC paid for an outdoor ping pong table, £3,694.80 inc VAT.  The cost (minus VAT) was reimbursed in 2024/25 by EDDC through S106 funding.  GPC did not make any major purchases in 2024-25.
Box 9 Total fixed assets & long term investments & assets33,84433,986-142-0.004n/a
Box 10 Total borrowings      NILNILNILNIL    n/a  
Explanation for ‘high’ reserves       
Box 7 is almost twice Box 2 because the authority held the following breakdown of reserves at the year end:
 
£7,257.61 Contingency
£6,493.32 CIL

Certificate of Exemption – AGAR 2024/25 Part 2

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To be completed by smaller authorities where the higher of gross income or gross expenditure did not exceed £25,000 in the year of account ended 31 March 2024, and that wish to certify  themselves as exempt from a limited assurance review under Section 9 of the Local Audit  (Smaller Authorities) Regulations 2015

There is no requirement to have a limited assurance review or to submit an Annual Governance and Accountability Return to the external auditor, provided that the authority has certified itself as exempt at a meeting of the  authority after 31 March 2025 and a completed Certificate of Exemption is submitted no later than 30 June 2025 notifying the external auditor.

Gittisham Parish Council

certifies that during the financial year 2024/25, the higher of the authority’s total gross income for the year or total gross annual expenditure, for the year did not exceed £25,000

Total annual gross income for the authority 2024/25: £14,266
Total annual gross expenditure for the authority 2024/25: £9,197

There are certain circumstances in which an authority will be unable to certify itself as exempt, so that a limited  assurance review will still be required. If an authority is unable to confirm the statements below then it  cannot certify itself as exempt and it must submit the completed Annual Governance and Accountability Return Part 3 to the external auditor to undertake a limited assurance review for which a fee of £200 +VAT will be payable.

By signing this Certificate of Exemption you are confirming that:

  • The authority was in existence on 1st April 2020
  • In relation to the preceding financial year (2023/24), the external auditor has not:
  • issued a public interest report in respect of the authority or any entity connected with it
  • made a statutory recommendation to the authority, relating to the authority or any entity connected with it
  • issued an advisory notice under paragraph 1(1) of Schedule 8 to the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 (“the Act”), and has not withdrawn the notice
  • commenced judicial review proceedings under section 31(1) of the Act
  • made an application under section 28(1) of the Act for a declaration that an item of account is unlawful, and the application has not been withdrawn nor has the court refused to make the declaration
  • The court has not declared an item of account unlawful after a person made an appeal under section 28(3) of the Act.

If you are able to confirm that the above statements apply and that the authority neither received gross income, nor incurred gross expenditure, exceeding £25,000, then the Certificate of Exemption can be signed and a copy submitted to the external auditor either by email or by post (not both).

The Annual Internal Audit Report, Annual Governance Statement, Accounting Statements, an analysis of  variances and the bank reconciliation plus the information required by Regulation 15 (2), Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 including the period for the exercise of public rights still need to be fully completed and,  along with a copy of this certificate, published on the authority website/webpage* before 1 July 2025.  By signing this certificate you are also confirming that you are aware of this requirement.

*https://gittisham.org.uk

ONLY this Certificate of Exemption should be returned EITHER by email OR by post (not both) as soon as possible after certification to your external auditor, but no later than 30 June 2025. Reminder letters incur a charge of £40 +VAT

Annual Internal Audit Report 2024/25

Signed by the Responsible Financial Officer

Clerk Signature

Date 05/06/2025

Signed by Chairman

Date 05/06/2025

I confirm that this Certificate of Exemption was approved by this authority on this date: 05/06/2025

as recorded in minute reference: 33/25

Generic email address of Authority:

Telephone Number 07899 932620

Published Web address www.gittisham.org.uk

Gittisham Parish Council

www.gittisham.org.uk

During the financial year ended 31 March 2025, this authority’s internal auditor acting independently and on the basis of an assessment of risk, carried out a selective assessment of compliance with the relevant procedures and controls in operation and obtained appropriate evidence from the authority.

The internal audit for 2024/25 has been carried out in accordance with this authority’s needs and planned coverage. On the basis of the findings in the areas examined, the internal audit conclusions are summarised in this table. Set out below are the objectives of internal control and alongside are the internal audit conclusions on whether, in all significant respects, the control objectives were being achieved throughout the financial year to a standard adequate to meet the needs of this authority.

Internal control objectiveYesNo*Not covered** 
A.  Appropriate accounting records have been properly kept throughout the financial year.Y   
B.  This authority complied with its financial regulations, payments were supported by invoices, all expenditure was approved and VAT was appropriately accounted for.Y   
C.  This authority assessed the significant risks to achieving its objectives and reviewed the adequacy of arrangements to manage these.Y   
D.  The precept or rates requirement resulted from an adequate budgetary process; progress against the budget was regularly monitored; and reserves were appropriate.Y   
E.  Expected income was fully received, based on correct prices, properly recorded, and promptly banked; and VAT was appropriately accounted for.Y   
F.  Petty cash payments were properly supported by receipts, all petty cash expenditure was approved and VAT appropriately accounted for.  Not applicable 
G. Salaries to employees and allowances to members were paid in accordance with this authority’s approvals, and PAYE and NI requirements were properly applied.Y   
H. Asset and investments registers were complete and accurate and properly maintained.Y   
I. Periodic bank account reconciliations were properly carried out during the year.Y   
J. Accounting statements prepared during the year were prepared on the correct accounting basis (receipts and payments or income and expenditure), agreed to the cash book, supported by an adequate audit trail from underlying records and where appropriate debtors and creditors were properly recorded.Y   
K. If the authority certified itself as exempt from a limited assurance review in 2023/24, it met the exemption criteria and correctly declared itself exempt. (If the authority had a limited assurance review of its 2021/22 AGAR tick “not covered”)Y   
L. The authority publishes information on a website/webpage, up to date at the time of the internal audit, in accordance with the Transparency code for smaller authorities.Y   
M. The authority, during the previous year (2023-24) correctly provided for the period for the  exercise of public rights as required by the Accounts and Audit Regulations (evidenced by the notice published on the website and/or authority approved minutes confirming the dates set).Y   
N. The authority has complied with the publication requirements for 2023/24 AGAR  (see AGAR Page 1 Guidance Notes).Y   
 O. (For local councils only)   Trust funds (including charitable) – The council met its responsibilities as a trustee.Not applicable
   

For any other risk areas identified by this authority adequate controls existed (list any other risk areas on separate sheets if needed).

Date(s) internal audit undertaken                              Name of person who carried out the internal audit

03/06/2025 – 05/06/2025                     Trudie Jenkins Avery

Signature of person who carried out the internal audit  

                        

Auditor Signature
  Date05/06/2025
*If the response is ‘no’ please state the implications and action being taken to address any weakness in control identified (add separate sheets if needed). **Note: If the response is ‘not covered’ please state when the most recent internal audit work was done in this area and when it is next planned; or, if coverage is not required, the annual internal audit report must explain why not (add separate sheets if needed).

Section 1 – Annual Governance Statement 2024/25

We acknowledge as the members of:

Gittisham Parish Council

our responsibility for ensuring that there is a sound system of internal control, including arrangements for the preparation of the Accounting Statements. We confirm, to the best of our knowledge and belief, with respect to the Accounting Statements for the year ended 31 March 2025, that:

Agreed
 YesNo‘Yes’ means that this authority:
1. We have put in place arrangements for effective financial management during the year, and for the preparation of the accounting statements. Y prepared its accounting statements in accordance   with the Accounts and Audit Regulations.
2. We maintained an adequate system of internal control including measures designed to prevent and detect fraud and corruption and reviewed its effectiveness.  Y made proper arrangements and accepted responsibility  for safeguarding the public money and resources in  its charge.
3. We took all reasonable steps to assure ourselves      that there are no matters of actual or potential              non-compliance with laws, regulations and Proper       Practices that could have a significant financial effect              on the ability of this authority to conduct its        business or manage its finances.  Y has only done what it has the legal power to do and has complied with Proper Practices in doing so.
4. We provided proper opportunity during the year for  the exercise of electors’ rights in accordance with the requirements of the Accounts and Audit Regulations.  Y during the year gave all persons interested the opportunity to inspect and ask questions about this authority’s accounts.
5. We carried out an assessment of the risks facing this authority and took appropriate steps to manage those risks, including the introduction of internal controls and/or external insurance cover where required.  Y considered and documented the financial and other risks it faces and dealt with them properly.
6. We maintained throughout the year an adequate and  effective system of internal audit of the accounting  records and control systems.  Y arranged for a competent person, independent of the financial controls and procedures, to give an objective view on whether internal controls meet the needs of this smaller authority.
7. We took appropriate action on all matters raised  in reports from internal and external audit.  Y responded to matters brought to its attention by internal and external audit.
8. We considered whether any litigation, liabilities or  commitments, events or transactions, occurring either during or after the year-end, have a financial impact on this authority and, where appropriate, have included them in the accounting statements.  Y disclosed everything it should have about its business activity during the year including events taking place after the year end if relevant.
9. (For local councils only) Trust funds including  charitable. In our capacity as the sole managing  trustee we discharged our accountability  responsibilities for the fund(s)/assets, including  financial reporting and, if required, independent  examination or audit.N/Ahas met all of its responsibilities where as a body corporate it is a sole managing trustee of a local trust or trusts.
   

*For any statement to which the response is ‘no’, an explanation must be published

This Annual Governance Statement was approved at a meeting of the authority on:

05/06/2025

Signed by the Chairman and Clerk of the meeting where approval was given:

Chairman

Chairman Signature

       Clerk

Clerk Signature

and recorded as minute reference: 31/25

Other information required by the Transparency Code (not part of the Annual Governance Statement)
The authority website/webpage is up to date and the information required by the Transparency Code has  been published.Yes
  

www.gittisham.org.uk

Section 2 – Accounting Statements 2024/25 for

Gittisham Parish Council

Year ending
 Notes and guidance
31 March 2024 £31 March 2025 £Please round all figures to nearest £1. Do not leave any boxes blank and report £0 or Nil balances. All figures must agree to underlying financial records.
1. Balances brought  forward21,93517,489Total balances and reserves at the beginning of the year  as recorded in the financial records. Value must agree to Box 7 of previous year.
2. (+) Precept or Rates and Levies9,30710,139Total amount of precept (or for IDBs rates and levies) received or receivable in the year. Exclude any grants received.
3. (+) Total other receipts1,1194,127Total income or receipts as recorded in the cashbook less the precept or rates/levies received (line 2). Include any grants received.
4. (-) Staff costs3,5903,541Total expenditure or payments made to and on behalf  of all employees. Include gross salaries and wages,  employers NI contributions, employers pension  contributions, gratuities and severance payments.
5. (-) Loan interest/capital repayments00Total expenditure or payments of capital and interest made during the year on the authority’s borrowings (if any).
6.  (-) All other payments11,2825,657Total expenditure or payments as recorded in the cashbook less staff costs (line 4) and loan interest/capital repayments (line 5).
7. (=) Balances carried forward17,48922,557Total balances and reserves at the end of the year. Must equal (1+2+3) – (4+5+6).
8. Total value of cash and short term investments17,48922,557The sum of all current and deposit bank accounts, cash holdings and short term investments held as at 31 March – To agree with bank reconciliation.
9. Total fixed assets plus long term investments  and assets33,84433,986The value of all the property the authority owns – it is made up of all its fixed assets and long term investments as at  31 March.
10. Total borrowings00The outstanding capital balance as at 31 March of all loans from third parties (including PWLB).
11. (For Local Councils Only) Disclosure note re Trust funds (including charitable)N/AN/AN/AThe Council as a body corporate acts as sole trustee for and is responsible for managing Trust funds or assets.
 NN.B. The figures in the accounting statements above do not include any Trust transactions.

I certify that for the year ended 31 March 2025 the Accounting Statements in this Annual Governance and Accountability Return have been prepared on either a receipts and  payments or income and expenditure basis following the guidance in Governance and Accountability for Smaller  Authorities – a Practitioners’ Guide to Proper Practices  and present fairly the financial position of this authority.

Signed by Responsible Financial Officer before being  presented to the authority for approval:

Clerk Signature

Date 05/06/2025

I confirm that these Accounting Statements were approved by this authority on this date:

05/06/2025

as recorded in minute reference: 32/25

Signed by Chairman of the meeting where the  Accounting Statements were approved

Chairman Signature

GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL RECEIPTS AND PAYMENT ACCOUNT FOR YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

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RECEIPTS20242025
Precept£10,139.08£0
VAT£833.20£0
Community Infrastructure Levy£0£0
S106£3,079£0
Grants£0£0
Other£0£113.57
Interest on business reserve £0£100.73
TOTAL RECEIPTS£14,051.28£214.30
PAYMENTS20242025
Clerk’s salary£2,412.42£800.25
Clerk’s expenses£89.76£42.76
Clerk’s pension£243.62£84.24
HMRC / PAYE£0 £0
Parish room / village hall hire£82£35
Subscriptions£348£60
Audit£145 £0
VAT incurred£284.20£27
Lengthsman£398.75£0
Lengthsman expenses£8.73£0
Maintenance£965£0
Donations S137£0£400 
Website & related£572.67£0
Defibrillator (Hayne Farm) £0£135
Defibrillator annual maintenance x2£270£0
Insurance£420.44£0 
Insurance (lengthsman)£0£0
Gittisham Gazette printing £60£15
Other miscellaneous expenditure£1,297.60£0
TOTAL PAYMENTS£7,598.19£1,599.25
TOTAL PROFIT / LOSS FOR THE YEAR£6,453.09-£1,384.95
RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS SUMMARY 
Balance b/f£14,489.30
Gross income and reserves£17,265.58
Less total payment£9,197.44
TOTAL£22,557.44
BANK BALANCES 31.03.2025 
Nat West Business Reserve£7,257.61
Nat West Current Account£15,461.83
Unpresented payments£162
TOTAL£22,557.44

2025-05 Parish Council meeting minutes 8 May 2025

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Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine

Vale ward: Cllr A Powell, Cllr Andrea Rye

In attendance: Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), (member of the public), Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr P Orchard, Cllr G Pester, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England

1/25 To elect a Chair

Cllr Valentine nominated Cllr Hall for election as Chair for 2025/26.  This nomination was seconded by Cllr Rowe.  A roll call of members present at the meeting was then taken.  It was then resolved by a unanimous decision that Cllr Hall be elected Chair for 2025/26 of Gittisham Parish Council. 

2/25 To elect a Vice Chair

Cllr Hall nominated Cllr Rowe for election as Vice Chair for 2025/26.  This nomination was seconded by Cllr Valentine.  A roll call of members present at the meeting was then taken.  It was then resolved by a unanimous decision that Cllr Rowe be elected Vice Chair for 2025/26 of Gittisham Parish Council. 

3/25 To receive the Chair’s and Vice Chair’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office

In accordance with Section 83 of the Local Government Act 1972, Cllrs Hall & Rowe made a Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

4/25 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

5/25        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 17th April 2025

The minutes of the meeting held on 17th April 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

6/25        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

There has been no update on the police website since the last meeting.

7/25        To receive declarations of interest

None.

8/25        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

Cllr Valentine said the parish council had received some correspondence from Broadhembury PC explaining their objections to EDDC’s Local Plan.  They challenged both the soundness of the plan and raised objections to what was being proposed.  Members discussed the whys and wherefores of recruiting a planning consultant to represent Gittisham parish at the examination in public, which could be prohibitively expensive.  Cllr Powell asked why there didn’t appear to be an invitation from EDDC to develop brownfield sites, as there is one for greenfield sites. 

ACTION: Clerk to contact Charlie Hopkins who represented the parish council on a previous occasion.  Clerk to send GPC’s objection and EDDC’s response to Cllr Jefferies.

ACTION: Cllr Powell to write to EDDC asking about an invitation for brownfield site development. 

9/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

Cllr Jefferies introduced himself as the newly elected County Councillor for the electoral division of Feniton & Honiton.  He has lived around Honiton for 20 years, has worked in construction and is a keen environmentalist.  He has chaired the East Devon National Landscape Partnership.  Members said they would very much like him to help progress the lack of superfast broadband in Gittisham village.  Cllr Jefferies said EDDC would be sending out a survey about rural broadband across the district.  All paid tribute to the work of Cllr Phil Twiss who fulfilled the role from May 2017 until the recent election, and his strong support for the parish.

In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “I was able to attend the raising of the Union Jack at Blackdown House today to pay respects on VE Day. It was gratifying to see so many in attendance, and share stories from veterans and relatives.  I am always in constant awe at the bravery of all who helped keep us safe then and achieve our ultimate defeat of evil.

“At District level, although it’s been relatively quiet, the ramifications to local government still hang like an unanswered question.  I’m assured that work behind the scenes is pressing forward to achieve the best outcome for our district. I still, however remain deeply concerned that the proposed changes to local planning will see many of the checks and balances that have protected our communities from savage development are about to be swept away in the pursuit of short term gains, with no regard to the cohesion of our parishes and villages.

“On a more positive note, it would be remiss of me not to mention the major changes to Devon County Council following the recent elections. I am pleased to congratulate Cllr Jefferies, our new representative, and very much look forward to working with him.  I’d also like to put on record my sincere thanks to Cllr Twiss for the sterling service he has given to our ward.  In the 15 years I have been involved in local politics, I have not come across a more hard-working councillor and one so dedicated to doing his very best for his electorate.”

10/25   To consider the following planning applications:

a) 25/0856/FUL – 1 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH – Replacement single storey side extension with associated internal alterations

b) 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application).

Councillors resolved to have no objection to a).  Regarding b), GPC was made aware in August last year by a parishioner of a previous application for change of use at Roebuck Farm.  This application was subsequently withdrawn.  Although Gittisham is the adjoining parish, part of the track which serves the proposed change of use is in Gittisham parish.  Councillors expressed their disappointment that a change of use from farm entrance to MOT station appeared to have gone ahead, and objected to this application which risks increasing vehicle movements in the surrounding area.

11/25     To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:

  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)

Cllr Powell said he had spoken to somebody at Wildanet who specialise in rural broadband in the South West, and have been developing a network in Cornwall.  The company said they would like to help but do not have the resources to do so. 

  • To note the latest planning decision notices
  1. 24/2270/FUL Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate. Approval.
  • 24/2271/LBC Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace windows on ground floor on south west, north east, north west and south east elevations.  Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate.  Approval.
  • 25/0637/FUL 2 Ferndale Close Honiton EX14 2YN – Construction of two-storey side extension.  Approval.
  • APP/U1105/W/24/3348938 Kings Arms Farm, Nags Head Road, Gittisham EX14 3AP – Proposed house of multiple occupation (HMO), that provides individual living-rooms for vulnerable people; the facility includes communal areas for socialising, cooking and dining set with private and secure gardens.  Appeal dismissed.
  • To receive an update on Highways 

4–6 August road through Alfington closed for Wales and West Utilities work.

The Chair said she had been corresponding with a parishioner who asked if additional action could be taken on potholes, especially on the road up to Beech Walk.  Members heard it can be an onerous task to report so many potholes individually on DCC’s website, and the site does not allow high resolution photos.  Cllr Rowe said he had suggested an alternative.

  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106

EDDC have released £200k of S106 money to Honiton Rugby Club for improvements to floodlights and drainage. Work should start this month for completion by the forthcoming season. Part of this sum was a contribution from Baker Estates to Gittisham parish, which the parish council gifted to Honiton Town Council to spend on sports activities which would benefit Gittisham parishioners.  The Chair asked if it would be possible for the rugby club to acknowledge Gittisham’s contribution in some way.

Cllr Rye enquired about the field on the corner of Hayne Lane and the link road, and whether the oak trees there could be protected.  Cllr Valentine replied that the site has been earmarked for employment land.  Cllr Jefferies advised Cllr Rye to look at EDDC’s tree and hedgerow strategy.

ACTION: Clerk to ask EDDC about its tree warden scheme and feed back to Cllr Rye.

  • To receive an update on public transport

Nothing to report this month.

  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish

Cllr Rowe reported that the village hall will be running on self-generated green electricity throughout the summer months. 

  • To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said a bat survey was being carried out the evening of 8th May at the site.  

  • To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village

Cllr Powell said installing matting could be one solution to the grass verge from Hayne Farm towards the Otter Inn, and might encourage people to walk rather than drive. 

Cllr Valentine left the meeting.

  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area

Cllrs Powell, Rye and Orchard have attended to the items highlighted in the annual safety inspection report.  Cllr Rye said some cherry trees could be trained along the back wall of the wild area by the bee hotel.

ACTION: Clerk to ask safety inspector for advice on signs for the play area.

  • To consider the scope of future lengthsman work and recruitment

The Chair urged all members to identify areas which needed work and bring them to the next meeting, if they could not be fixed by councillors themselves.  The clerk said there was no update on lengthsman recruitment.

12/25     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was no update this month.

13/25     To consider and adopt the parish council’s standing orders

Members resolved to adopt the parish council’s standing orders.

14/25     To review the parish council’s fixed asset register

Members noted the fixed asset register.

ACTION: Clerk to add Greentech matting.

15/25     To approve the May payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £6.75 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 2 for minutes & April meeting @0.45p / mile)

F Clampin £108.97 reimbursement for vouchers & thank you cards for former councillors

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £140 (inv. refs. 10403 & 10400)

DALC 2 x cllr training courses (Cllr Pester) £36

Community First Trading annual insurance policy £473.26

NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £25,989.76 (which includes approximately £7,000 in the business reserve account). 

ACTION: Clerk to investigate purchase of a new noticeboard for outside the village hall, including contacting the sawmills in Luton, near Payhembury.

16/25 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

17/25     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Annual accountability & governance; reducing GPC’s reserves.

18/25     To consider any late entry correspondence

None.

19/25     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 5th June and Thursday 3rd July 2025 at 7.30pm.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2105 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

5th June 2025

2025-06 Parish Council agenda 5 June 2025

by

GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Ms Fiona Clampin

Clerk to the Council

30th May 2025

Members of Gittisham Parish Council

You are hereby summoned to attend the June Parish Council Meeting to be held in Gittisham Parish Room on Thursday 5th June 2025 commencing at 7.30pm to discuss items on the Agenda and to make resolutions as appropriate.

Prior to the start of the meeting a period of 15 minutes is allowed to permit any resident to bring appropriate matters to the notice of the Council.  Please contact the clerk if you would like to do this, preferably by email in advance of the meeting, with a question you wish to be raised with Councillors on your behalf. 

  1. To accept and approve apologies
  2. To confirm the Minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2025
  3. To receive the Beat Manager’s report
  4. To receive declarations of interest
  5. To consider actions from last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
  6. To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
  7. To consider the following planning applications:
    • 24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Estate owned open market houses (amended plans)
    • 25/0885/FUL – Unit 3 Iron Bridge Industrial Estate EX14 3AN – Proposed enlargement of existing commercial building to provide additional warehouse space
    • 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Westonm EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application)
  8. To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
  • To note the latest planning decision notices (Cllr Orchard)
  • To receive an update on highways (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy and S106, including the 2nd tranche of funds from Hayne Farm (Cllr Orchard & Cllr Hall)
  • To receive an update on public transport (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land off Old Elm Road (Cllr Rowe)
  • To consider limited residential development in the parish (Cllr Valentine)
  • To consider the creation of a traffic-free amenity route linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village (Cllr Rowe / Cllr Powell)
  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area, and to note the annual safety inspection report
  • To consider the scope of future lengthsman work and recruitment
  1. To receive a report from the Chair
  1. To approve the June payments and to note the current bank balance:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for agendas, minutes, election & May meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £210 (inv. refs. 10408 & 10413)

NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08

  1. To receive and note the annual internal audit report
  2. To approve the annual governance statement 2024-25
  3. To approve the 2024-25 accounting statements
  4. To consider the criteria for meeting exemption from the annual limited assurance review 2024-25, and approve the exemption certificate
  5. To set and approve the period for the exercise of public rights 2024-25
  6. To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
  7. Clerk’s report
  8. For information only; items for the forward agenda
  9. To consider any late entry correspondence
  10. To note the date of the next two meetings, Thursday 3rd July and Thursday 4th September 2025 at 7.30pm. 

F J Clampin – Clerk

2025-05 Parish Council agenda 8 May 2025

by

GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Ms Fiona Clampin

Clerk to the Council

1 May 2025

Local Government Act 1972

NOTICE OF ANNUAL PARISH MEETING FOR GITTISHAM PARISH

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT

The Annual Assembly of the Parish Meeting for Gittisham will be held in the parish room on Thursday 8th May 2025 at 7.30pm

The meeting will be open to the public.

Annual Parish Meeting Agenda

  1. Introduction by Council Chair
  2. Apologies for absence 
  3. Report on the Council’s activities in 2024/25 by the Council Chair
  4. Annual Police Report
  5. County and District representatives’ reports
  6. Reports by village organisations
  7. To consider any matters raised by residents.

Annual Council Meeting Agenda

1st May 2025

Members of Gittisham Parish Council

You are hereby summoned to attend the Annual Council Meeting to be held in Gittisham Parish Room on Thursday 8th May 2025 commencing at 7.30pm (following the Annual Parish Meeting) to discuss items on the Agenda and to make resolutions as appropriate.

Prior to the start of the meeting a period of 15 minutes is allowed to permit any resident to bring appropriate matters to the notice of the Council.  Please contact the clerk if you would like to do this, preferably by email in advance of the meeting, with a question you wish to be raised with Councillors on your behalf. 

  1. To elect a Chair
  2. To elect a Vice Chair
  3. To receive the Chair’s & Vice Chair’s declaration of Acceptance of Office
  4. To accept and approve apologies
  5. To confirm the Minutes of the Ordinary meeting held on 17th April 2025
  6. To receive the Beat Manager’s report
  7. To receive declarations of interest
  8. To consider actions from last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
  9. To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
  10. To consider the following planning applications:
    • 25/0856/FUL – 1 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH – Replacement single storey side extension with associated internal alterations
    • 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application).
  11. To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
  • To note the latest planning decision notices (Cllr Orchard)
  • To receive an update on highways, and consider potholes (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy and S106, including the 2nd tranche of funds from Hayne Farm  (Cllr Orchard / Cllr Hall)
  • To receive an update on public transport (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including rewilding land off Old Elm Road (Cllr Rowe)
  • To consider limited residential development in the parish (Cllr Valentine)
  • To consider the creation of a traffic-free amenity route linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village (Cllr Powell / Cllr Rowe)
  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
  • To consider the scope of future lengthsman work and recruitment
  1. To receive a report from the Chair
  2. To approve the May payments and to note the current bank balance:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £6.75 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 2 for minutes & April meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £140 (inv. refs. 10403 & 10400)

DALC 2 x cllr training courses £tbc

Community First Trading annual insurance policy £tbc

NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08

  1. To consider and adopt the parish council’s standing orders
  2. To review the parish council’s fixed asset register
  3. Clerk’s report
  4. For information only; items for the forward agenda
  5. To consider any late entry correspondence
  6. To note the date of the next two meetings, Thursday 5th June and Thursday 3rd July 2025 at 7.30pm.

F J Clampin – Clerk

2025-04 Parish Council meeting minutes 17 April 2025

by

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine, Cllr A Powell

Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard

In attendance: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), Andrea Rye (member of the public), Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England

179/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

180/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 6th March 2025

The minutes of the meeting held on 6th March 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

181/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

January 2025

Nether Close: 2 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x other theft

Hamlett Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences

Rowan Close: 1 x criminal damage & arson

Nags Head Road: 1 x other theft

February 2025

Nags Head Road: 1 x violence & sexual offences

Meadow Acre: 1 x burglary

182/24        To receive declarations of interest

The Chair and Cllr Valentine declared an interest in agenda item 9a) (minute ref. 187/24a) as they are shareholders of Gittisham Community Land Trust.

183/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

The clerk said EDDC had replied to her enquiry regarding ward member representation.  She understands that Gittisham’s current make-up is in line with NALC’s recommendation.

184/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

Cllr Twiss explained that this was his final Division members’ report for this version of Devon County Council, where a new, much different in member composition, (largely due to around half of councillors retiring from what at times can be an unforgiving role) that will be elected on 1st May.  He thanked councillors and members of the public for the support that they have given him in the last four years. This has seen a huge amount change taking place, as we emerged from Covid and continue to recover from that dark time, set against a background of a severely underfunded local government sector facing huge challenges to fulfil its statutory obligations, particularly in adult, children’s and highways services.

Cllr Twiss said his report was limited and of a factual nature only, given we are currently in the election regulated period or ‘purdah’ which restricts what councillors can and cannot say or do. The period ends on 2nd May following the completion of DCC elections.

New Domestic Abuse Support Service launches

A new integrated Domestic Abuse Support Service has been launched by Devon County Council, and it aims to transform how people in the county access and receive support.  The service will be provided by the Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance, a partnership of seven local organisations: North Devon Against Domestic Abuse (NDADA), Encompass Southwest, CoLab Exeter, More Positive Me, The Olive Project, CRAFT Training and Development and Surviving Abuse North Devon.  Each partner brings a wealth of expertise, which will help ensure that those in need of the service, their friends and families as well as professionals receive the right advice, information and care at the right time.  At the heart of this approach is My Story, a person-centred approach led by a dedicated support team, which aims to avoid individuals being referred to multiple services and then asked to share their traumatic experiences multiple times.

The service will include:

  •  Single Entry Gateway – A single point of contact offering clear, accessible pathways to support, with phone, text, email, and online chat options to make help easy to reach.
  •  Community Domestic Abuse Support – Specialist teams providing risk management, and safety planning tailored to each person’s situation, as well as whole family support and interventions to address the behaviours of those causing harm.
  •  Safe Accommodation, Staying Put, and Resettlement Support – A range of refuge and dispersed safe accommodation solutions and help for people to remain safely in their own home.
  •  Trauma-Responsive Recovery – Dedicated one-to-one and group therapeutic interventions and peer support, ensuring survivors receive the emotional support needed to heal.
  •  Specialist Support – Addressing complex needs such as mental health, substance use, and homelessness, including safe accommodation and outreach options.
  •  Behaviour Change – Interventions to help those who harm break the cycle of abuse and take responsibility for change.

For more information, support, or to refer someone to the service from 1st April 2025, contact: 0808 281 6161.

Children with EHCPs allocated places in their first-choice mainstream school

One hundred per cent of families of children with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) have been allocated places in their first-choice mainstream school from September.  Families sometimes request that DCC considers specialist education alongside mainstream provision, and where specialist provision was requested by families, 87 per cent have been allocated places suitable to their child’s special educational and disability needs. Thirteen per cent were allocated places in their mainstream school of choice or their nearest suitable school that can meet their child’s needs.

The latest figures follow DCC’s announcement earlier this month describing an overall increase in the number of families being allocated their first choices of Devon secondary school places for September.  Seven thousand, three hundred and ninety-eight allocations were made in total for places at Devon mainstream secondary schools this September.  In allocating places for pupils with EHCPs, DCC first consults with the requested school or other setting to ask if they are suitable in being able to meet the child’s needs, and whether they have space. DCC considers the schools’ or settings’ response against a legal criteria as well as the parents’ preferences before making a decision to determine a setting by name (of school, for example) and/or what type of setting or provision to name on their EHCP.

DCC to maintain Free School Meal vouchers as support fund reduced

The Government has confirmed a 11.87% decrease in this year’s Household Support Fund allocation.  The Fund, operating since 2021 and now in its seventh round, was introduced to help individuals and families that are struggling financially with the rising cost of living, such as the costs of energy, food, and other essential household items.  Over that period, DCC channelled its allocation of Household Support Funding into providing a range of support, including the provision of Free School Meal holiday vouchers to families with children and young people who are eligible free school meals during term time.

Citizen’s Advice Devon has used some of DCC’s allocation to support households that use pre-payment meters, often paying higher unit costs and digital meters to help them afford and budget for their energy usage.  Devon’s district councils have used their allocation of the Household Support Fund to support older residents and individuals known to be on low incomes and/or claiming certain benefits, and who are struggling with the high costs of living.  The Department of Work and Pensions’ decrease means that where last year, DCC received £10.1 million, this year Devon will receive £8.9 million.  Cllr Twiss said the impact is likely to hit some of the county’s most vulnerable residents, at a time of continued high prices for food, fuel, and other essential household items.

DCC has confirmed that it will maintain the Free School Meal holiday vouchers, at the same £15 per week per eligible child level, for this Easter and May half-term holidays.  Beyond that though, with Devon County Council heading towards local elections on 1st May, it will be a decision for the council’s new administration as to how it will allocate the reduced purse to its partner organisations that support people struggling with the cost of living.

In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “It’s becoming harder to know what to say with the avalanche of planning applications hitting this little corner of Devon. With this Labour government it’s fast becoming the Wild West of planning, with previously sound reasons to object being swept away, and scant regard to the impact our  fragile communities are going to have to deal with. With this frantic push for housing numbers, long cherished, and hard-won, characteristics of our villages are under threat like never before. If these targets are achieved, they will alter the very fabric of our countryside permanently. Which is why I always ask anyone who emails me concerning a planning application to take part in the consultation process with EDDC, and encourage others to do the same. Whilst we are forced to put forward all the obvious reasons to refuse, and then watch in horror as they are summarily dismissed, I still believe weight of numbers can count with the committee. There is little left to say at this point other than to keep fighting at every opportunity wherever we can.

“It seems a bit irrelevant to follow the above with a comment on the upcoming devolution of your district and county councils, but I mention it here as I believe, although not mentioned in the white paper, parish and town councils may be required to take a greater portion of the areas of responsibility currently placed elsewhere. The short deadline required by Government has meant those involved scrabbling to come up with a plan, rather than have a solution imposed on us. Make no mistake, there are going to be profound changes to the way local government works. My fear is that these changes will reduce services, and levels of responsibility and accountability. Devolution it is not in my view.

“Sewerage issues are once again in the news, and not just in Feniton, but across the South West. The figures recently released make for shocking reading. We seem to be going backwards in terms of water quality. I have given up swimming in the sea after contracting a serious illness the medical profession suggest I picked up there. These are pursuits we used to, and still should, take for granted. We should expect and demand that our elected representatives who have some level of control over this do far better than they currently do. I believe the state our water quality now is in brings shame on our country.

“Finally, I thought I’d share with you some recent emails from Highways with you. This followed a series of complaints from Highways regarding some recent repairs. The first was where a large culvert was replaced after waiting for three years! You imagine the bewildered surprise of the locals when they saw the input grate to the culvert had been placed some 8 inches above the catch point for water rushing down the road. When this was pointed out to the engineer, he emailed to say ‘hopefully it might catch some water from time to time’. That’s like a NASA engineer saying ‘let’s hope the engines fire on re-entry! The last one was a doozy when I got a reply from Highways saying ‘the road condition was not to our preferred standard, but no repairs will be undertaken at this time’. My complaint has always been that it doesn’t matter how much money a government throws at the state of our roads, there is a fundamental problem with how we do these repairs. The above two are just a couple of examples where ratepayers’ money has been wasted and are only a mile apart. Multiply that across the country and it’s obvious there must a catastrophic waste of money going on. Finally I’ll leave you with a recent repair near me where Highways filled a long repair by the side of the road. Did they use tarmac? Why do that when soil will do just as well!”

Cllr Twiss left the meeting.

185/24   To consider the hedges along Hayne Lane / Devonshire Road

Members heard that a resident had complained about the level of hedge cutting along this stretch of road, which they considered to be drastic.  However, councillors agreed that the cutting had been done outside of the nesting season, and now appeared to be growing back.

ACTION: Clerk to respond to resident.

186/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Cllr Valentine said he had formally submitted the parish council’s objections to EDDC’s Local Plan, and indicated that the GPC would like to be engaged in the process when the examination in public takes place.  He explained that Broadhembury PC had taken a different approach, and challenged the legal basis for the work done on the plan, after seeking advice from a planning consultant.  Members agreed with the Chair’s suggestion that a planning consultant should be invited to a future meeting to allow councillors to discuss whether someone representing the parish council would be an appropriate course of action.

Members heard that some parishioners had found the template letter helpful in submitting their comments to the Local Plan, and the Chair thanked Cllrs Rowe and Valentine who had drawn it up.    

ACTION: Clerk to contact Broadhembury PC to enquire about consultant advice.

The Chair and Cllr Valentine left the meeting.  Cllr Rowe took the chair.

187/24   To consider the following planning applications:

    1. 24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Estate owned open market houses

    Councillors had no objections to a).  The Chair and Cllr Valentine returned to the meeting.

    1. 25/0637/FUL – 2 Ferndale Close Honiton EX14 2YN – Construction of two-storey side extension
    2. 24/2270/FUL – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
    3. 24/2271/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace all windows. Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
    4. 25/0659/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – To take down existing wall to barns 1 and 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
    5. 25/0660/VAR – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Variation of Condition number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 20/0781/FUL (Conversion of barn to holiday let accommodation) proposal to take down existing wall to Barns 1 & 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face

    Councillors had no objections to b), c), d), e) and f).

    ACTION: Clerk to resend parish council’s supportive comments for a).

188/24     To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:

  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)

Cllr Powell said he had spoken to somebody at Virgin, who had advised him to make enquiries with Wildanet who specialise in rural broadband.  Cllr Powell agreed to get in touch with Richard Foord MP, as it has been almost a year since he met parish council members to discuss broadband.

  • To note the latest planning decision notices

Cllr Orchard said there were no updates.

  • To receive an update on Highways 

No planned works proposed for foreseeable future, although maintenance and safety checks of overhead power lines will close roads north of the parish in late April, said Cllr Orchard.

  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106

Nothing to report this month.

  • To receive an update on public transport

Nothing to report this month.

  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish

Members discussed whether it would be necessary to reseed the area at the bottom of Old Elm Road, where travellers have appeared in the last day or so. 

  • To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said the Gittisham CLT board would be meeting on 23rd April.  The deadline for the extension of time on the planning application expires on 6th June.  Survey work which was being required for the revised application has just been done and therefore there will be a report which can go to EDDC prior to 6th June.    

  • To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village

Members concluded that any progress on footpaths would be more likely to happen once the allocations in EDDC’s Local Plan had been decided, and so it was agreed to take this off the agenda for the time being.

  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area

The Chair thanked Cllr Powell for his donation of a Tom Putt apple tree.  Members discussed the work arising from the annual safety inspection, and noted that one of the swing frames was beginning to show its age.  It was agreed to ask one or more of the new councillors if they would get involved in carrying out some of the tasks identified.

ACTION: Cllr Powell to arrange a working party with Cllrs Rowe, Orchard and the new councillors.

ACTION: Clerk to ask safety inspector for advice on signs for the play area.

  • To consider work to be carried out by the lengthsman to maintain ditches and drains in the parish

The Chair urged all members to identify areas which needed work and bring them to the next meeting, if they could not be fixed by councillors themselves.

ACTION: Clerk to contact Tom Cox at DCC Highways regarding the flood gauge for the Iron Bridge.

189/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was no update this month.

190/24     To approve the April payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £13.50 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 4 for agendas, minutes, election & March meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10390)

Alvian Play & Recreation, annual play area safety inspection £102 (inv. ref. INV-1188)

Gittisham PCC Jan–March parish room hire £45

DALC annual subscription £446.17

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Members heard that the first half of the annual precept had been received, and were informed that the current bank balance stands at £27,265.49 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

191/24 To consider the casual vacancies in Gittisham Village & Gittisham Vale

Andrea Rye outlined her experience and what skills she felt she could bring to the parish council.  She said she was particularly keen to be involved in anything plant-related.  Ms Rye and Gary Pester were elected by a unanimous vote to represent Gittisham Vale and Gittisham Village ward respectively.

ACTION: Clerk to send new councillors register of interests form and investigate training courses. 

Andrea Rye left the meeting.

192/24 Clerk’s report

None.

193/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

No additional items.

194/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

The clerk said she had reported the encampment on land at the bottom of Old Elm Road to both the police and EDDC.  The Chair said she had replied to several residents’ enquiries about this.

195/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 8th May and Thursday 5th June 2025 at 7.30pm.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2035 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

8th May 2025

2025-04 Parish Council agenda 17 April 2025

by

GITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL

Ms Fiona Clampin

Clerk to the Council

10th April 2025

Members of Gittisham Parish Council

You are hereby summoned to attend the April Parish Council Meeting to be held in Gittisham Parish Room on Thursday 17th April 2025 commencing at 7.30pm to discuss items on the Agenda and to make resolutions as appropriate.

Prior to the start of the meeting a period of 15 minutes is allowed to permit any resident to bring appropriate matters to the notice of the Council.  Please contact the clerk if you would like to do this, preferably by email in advance of the meeting, with a question you wish to be raised with Councillors on your behalf. 

  1. To accept and approve apologies
  2. To confirm the Minutes of the meeting held on 6th March 2025
  3. To receive the Beat Manager’s report
  4. To receive declarations of interest
  5. To consider actions from last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
  6. To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
  7. To consider the hedgerows along Hayne Lane / Devonshire Road
  8. To receive a report on the Local Plan (Cllr Valentine), and consider contracting a planning consultant
  9. To consider the following planning applications:
    • 24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Estate owned open market houses
    • 25/0637/FUL – 2 Ferndale Close Honiton EX14 2YN – Construction of two-storey side extension
    • 24/2270/FUL – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
    • 24/2271/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace all windows. Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
    • 25/0659/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – To take down existing wall to barns 1 and 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
    • 25/0660/VAR – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Variation of Condition number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 20/0781/FUL (Conversion of barn to holiday let accommodation) proposal to take down existing wall to Barns 1 & 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
  10. To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
  • To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
  • To note the latest planning decision notices (Cllr Orchard)
  • To receive an update on highways (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy and S106, including the 2nd tranche of funds from Hayne Farm (Cllr Orchard & Cllr Hall)
  • To receive an update on public transport (Cllr Orchard)
  • To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land off Old Elm Road (Cllr Rowe)
  • To consider limited residential development in the parish (Cllr Valentine)
  • To consider the creation of a traffic-free amenity route linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village (Cllr Rowe / Cllr Powell)
  • To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area, and to note the annual safety inspection report
  • To consider the scope of future lengthsman work and recruitment
  1. To receive a report from the Chair
  1. To approve the April payments and to note the current bank balance:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £13.50 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 4 for agendas, minutes, election & March meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10390)

Alvian Play & Recreation, annual play area safety inspection £102 (inv. ref. INV-1188)

Gittisham PCC Jan–March parish room hire £45

DALC annual subscription £446.17

NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08

  1. To consider the casual vacancies in Gittisham Village & Gittisham Vale, and elect a new member as appropriate
  2. Clerk’s report
  3. For information only; items for the forward agenda
  4. To consider any late entry correspondence
  5. To note the date of the next two meetings, Thursday 8th May and Thursday 5th June 2025 at 7.30pm. 

F J Clampin – Clerk

Statement of Persons Nominated

by

East Devon District Council

Election of a County Councillor

The following is a statement of the persons nominated for election as a County Councillor for the Feniton and Honiton Division:

Name of Candidate  ALCOCK Barry (Reform UK)
Name of Proposer FRY James
Name of Seconder SMITH Graham L

Name of Candidate  CASEMORE Stephen John (Labour Party)
Name of Proposer KOLEK Stephen R
Name of Seconder SIMPSON Florence E

Name of Candidate COLLINS Jane (Green Party Candidate)
Name of Proposer WALKER Brent
Name of Seconder WALKER Sarah

Name of Candidate  FAITHFULL Peter Hamilton (Independent)
Name of Proposer HUGHES John R
Name of Seconder HUGHES Sarah

Home Address 14 Tip Hill, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1BE

Name of Candidate  FOTHERINGHAM Joanne Sara (Independent)
Name of Proposer MCCOLLUM Anthony J
Name of Seconder VERNON Victoria A

Name of Candidate  JEFFERIES Richard Oliver (Liberal Democrats)
Name of Proposer RYDER-MILLS David R
Name of Seconder FOULDS Sarah V A

Home Address 11 Millrise, Luppitt, Honiton, EX14 4UA

Name of Candidate  TWISS Phillip Michael (Local Conservatives)
Name of Proposer LONG Gregory
Name of Seconder BROWN Albert C

Home Address Swallowcliff, Beacon, Honiton, EX14 4TT

The persons above, where no entry is made in the last column, have been and stand validly nominated.

Dated Thursday 3 April 2025
Melanie J Wellman Deputy Returning Officer
Printed and published by the Deputy Returning Officer, Blackdown House, Border Road, Honiton, EX14 1EJ

Notice of Election Agents’ Names and Offices

by

Devon County Council Election
Date Of Election: Thursday 1 May 2025

I HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that the names and addresses of election agents of the candidates at
this election, and the addresses of the offices or places of such election agents to which all claims, notices, writs, summons, and other documents addressed to them may be sent, have respectively been declared in writing to me as follows:

Feniton & Honiton Division

Name of Candidate  ALCOCK Barry
Name of Election Agent FRY James
Address of Agent 10 Juniper Close, Honiton, EX14 2XL

Name of Candidate  CASEMORE Stephen John
Name of Election Agent CASEMORE Stephen John
Address of Agent 18 First Avenue, Exeter, EX1 2PH

Name of Candidate COLLINS Jane
Name of Election Agent VAUGHAN Sarah
Address of Agent 1 West Clyst Barnyard, West Clyst, Exeter, EX1 3TR

Name of Candidate  FAITHFULL Peter Hamilton
Name of Election Agent FAITHFULL Peter Hamilton
Address of Agent 14 Tip Hill, Ottery St Mary, EX11 1BE

Name of Candidate  FOTHERINGHAM Joanne Sara
Name of Election Agent INGHAM Nicholas
Address of Agent 49 New Street, Honiton, EX14 1BX

Name of Candidate  JEFFERIES Richard Oliver
Name of Election Agent OLIVE Todd
Address of Agent The Hive, School Hill, Whimple, EX5 2TS

Name of Candidate  TWISS Phillip Michael
Name of Election Agent BARWELL Jack David
Address of Agent 49 High Street, Honiton, EX14 1PW

Dated Thursday 3 April 2025
Melanie J Wellman Deputy Returning Officer
Printed and published by the Deputy Returning Officer, Blackdown House, Border Road, Honiton, EX14 1EJ