2024/25

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr Adam Powell, Cllr P Orchard

In attendance: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), two members of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

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

Before the start of the meeting, one member of the public raised concerns over the state of the River Gitt, as they had observed two silt banks getting bigger year on year with vegetation and other material.  They said it was beginning to impact on the drain holes in the wall which runs alongside the river in the centre of the village.  The clerk said the parish council was aware of the situation, and had already been in contact with EDDC who had promised to clear sections of the river.  Cllr Twiss said he thought DCC had also had some input in the past in clearing overflow channels, so he would make further enquiries.  The Chair said she and Cllr Rowe had inspected the river, and she had written a report outlining the issues and their location which the clerk will forward to Cllr Bruce.

One member of the public left the meeting.

55/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

56/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 11th July & 2nd August 2024

The minutes of the meetings held on 11th July and 2nd August 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

57/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

May 2024:

Meadow Acre – 1 x violence & sexual offences. 

June 2024:

Nether Close – 1 x other theft

Hamlett Close – 1 anti-social behaviour

Meadow Acre – 1 x criminal damage & arson

Parsonage Lane – 1 x violence & sexual offences

58/24        To receive declarations of interest

None.

59/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

Cllr Rowe said he had attended a meeting of Buckerell Parish Council, and their members had agreed that collaborating on planning issues and anything else which affects both parishes was sensible.  Members agreed with Cllr Rowe’s suggestion of inviting the new DCC Highways area officer to combined parish council meetings with a third council.

 

Cllr Rowe thanked the parish council for supporting the village fete on 31^st August, which raised approximately £3,000.

 

The clerk said she had been pursuing the agent repeatedly for planning application 24/0467/PDR Roebuck Farm Weston to invite the applicant to a meeting, but ‘phone calls and emails have so far failed to secure a response.

60/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

DCC Highways

Cllr Twiss said it is understandable that many peoples’ main involvement with DCC is to do with the Highways network.  Very often this is to do with road surface defects, particularly potholes, given many of us use our roads on a very regular basis. He outlined what else happens regarding Highways as part of a much wider area of interest.

As some very poor, wet weather during recent winters has created problems, it has been difficult to keep up with repairs.  Safety defects have taken priority when there is dry weather, which allows tarmac to set properly, rather than using short term fixes, which tend not to last. A generally drier summer has helped eat in to the backlog and Cllr Twiss hoped for similar in the run up to the end of the year.  Additionally in recent months, DCC has been able to put an additional £10m of capital funding towards the following:

• Additional serviceability patching (£7.75m)
• White lining maintenance (£0.25m)
• Drainage improvements (£2m)

By mid-August, more than 16,000m² of larger scale serviceability patching has been laid, which works out in excess of 315 locations. 

Over the summer four white lining gangs have been working across the county to remark the following:

• 145 mini roundabouts
• 30 compact roundabouts
• 197 zebra crossings

The funding is also making it possible to allow approximately 10kms of double white lines to be refreshed.  The programme of drainage improvements, particularly in rural areas, is being delivered through a dynamic approach with the Term Maintenance Contractor, where a number of factors come in to make best use of financial and human resources.  Delivery of the Local Area Capital Programme was delayed until mid-May due to staff being focused on pothole repairs, but work is now progressing well, with a large proportion of the projects already completed or scheduled to be completed before winter.

The major resurfacing programme for the A-road network is now underway, with the surface dressing programme already completed.  Cllr Twiss hoped that further efficiencies across DCC services will free up more money to invest further in the highways network in the coming months.

Over-40s encouraged to check their blood pressure

NHS and Public Health professionals at DCC are encouraging people aged 40+ to check their blood pressure. It’s part of a week-long national ‘Know Your Numbers’ campaign, beginning Monday 2 September, to raise awareness of high blood pressure.  Known as ‘the silent killer’, high blood pressure is a major cause of heart attack and stroke, but often has no symptoms.  Knowing your blood pressure means that you can start making healthy lifestyle changes or start taking medicines if you need them to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level.

Many local pharmacies or GP surgeries across Devon offer free blood pressure checks.  To check whether your local pharmacy offers this service visit the NHS webpage at https://tinyurl.com/2jydttj7 People can also check what the result might mean at https://tinyurl.com/4heb8fm8

This September explore the Great Outdoors!

This September we are all being asked to embrace the great outdoors and consider ditching the car and, where possible, use an alternative form of transport.  It’s all part of Outdoor September, a Devon-wide month-long campaign being promoted by Active Devon.  Being active, particularly outdoors, benefits your health and wellbeing and during the course of the month Active Devon and their partners from the Devon Local Nature

Partnership, Devon Climate Emergency, Devon County Council’s Public Health team and Travel Devon, will be sharing details of events, ideas and tips to help us all make the most of our environment.

The campaign aims to support those looking to change their behaviour and become more active.  Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy Devon during #OutdoorSeptember:

• Cycle Routes: Discover the joy of cycling on Devon’s extensive network of bike paths. From the family-friendly Tarka Trail and Exe Estuary Trail to the more challenging Dartmoor circuits, there’s a route for every level of cyclist. If you are looking for more confidence on your bike, why not sign up for free adult cycle sessions here on the Active Devon website https://activedevon.org/adult-cycle-training/
• Walking Trails: Put your best foot forward and discover what’s on your doorstep. This could be your local green space, exploring the South West Coast Path, wander through Dartmoor or Exmoor National Park, or take a leisurely walk along one of our many estuaries. For more information on exciting cycling and walking routes, visit the Explore Devon website at https://www.exploredevon.info/ 
• Public Transport Adventures: During September, it is World Car Free Day (22 September) so why not make use of Devon’s public transport. Combine train and bus routes to access remote areas and hidden gems. By exploring your local area without a car, if that’s possible, you’re contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions and helping to preserve our environment for future generations.  For more information on different ways to travel around Devon, visit the Travel Devon website at https://www.traveldevon.info/
• Nature Connection: Join guided nature walks, participate in birdwatching tours, or engage in outdoor park yoga sessions. There are endless ways to connect with nature and discover the tranquillity it offers. Maybe becoming a Wellbeing Walk Leader in Devon is something you’d be interested in? Take a look at the free training offered at https://tinyurl.com/2cmj57by

 In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “Our popular coastal resorts were constantly hit by sewerage releases throughout August and, as I write this, it appears there is no change in sight as Exmouth experiences yet another spill into our coastal waters. There seems little appetite as yet from those that hold the power to do something about this scandalous situation. Given the required housing numbers being imposed on us by government, it seems this situation is set to get worse unless more councils go down the road of Oxford where the EA has finally stepped up to the plate and halted a new development in its tracks. I wonder if DCC have the ***** to try it here!

“Having been asked to look into the missing railings on Riverside Bridge, not only has the parish not received a reply, but neither have I. So I have now written to the portfolio holder for an urgent explanation to this complete lack of communication.

“To finish on a more positive note, the fete seems to have been a resounding success, so all credit to the organising committee and volunteers for putting Gittisham so well on the map.

“Also, I’ve been approached by a Gittisham resident to see if we can get the postbox painted gold in honour of our recent Olympic gold medal. Getting hold of the relevant email to apply to Royal Mail proved a challenge, but it’s in the system, so let’s see what comes of it.”

Cllr Twiss added that DCC has passed a motion opposing the recent Government proposal to means test pensioners on the winter fuel payment, as members felt it was being introduced at too short notice and was potentially unfair.

As regards broadband, Cllr Twiss said he had met Cllr Rufus Gilbert, DCC’s portfolio holder for Economic Recovery and Skills.  Cllr Gilbert has promised to let him know in advance the outcome of contract variation discussions which are currently taking place between Connecting Devon & Somerset and Airband.  A final decision on what Airband will deliver – and whether this includes Gittisham – is expected at the end of September.

Cllr Twiss left the meeting.

61/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan

Cllr Valentine provided a summary of the latest EDDC Local Plan Working Group meeting, which he attended on 9^th August.  It was noted that the site identified as Gitt-5b is not now considered to be a proposed allocation.  However Cllr Valentine could not say there was any certainty about this in what will be presented as a final decision by EDDC.  The next stage is now consideration of the officer recommendations for each housing and employment allocation in the Honiton/Axminster regions, at a Strategic Planning Committee on 20^th September (am). Cllr Valentine said depending on what officer recommendations are presented, it will be important to be present and provide comments on each allocation at this meeting.  How much will be taken of Cllr Valentine’s comments on 9^th August is, at this point, unknown.

Members heard that EDDC is attempting to beat the clock in presenting their revised Local Plan before new housing targets come into force with the publication of an updated NPPF later this year. If they fail to achieve this, Cllr Valentine explained, the housing target will be increased by 28 per cent, placing more pressure on what is an already crumbling infrastructure.

ACTION: Clerk to confirm Cllr Valentine’s attendance with EDDC.

62/24   To consider use of Gittisham Village Hall for future parish council meetings

Members discussed whether the larger venue would be more appropriate, but it was decided to stay with the current location and day for now.  This will be kept under review, with the possibility of holding parish council meetings in the village hall when / if the subject warrants it.

ACTION: Cllr Walker to raise accessibility of the parish room at the next PCC meeting.

63/24   To consider the following planning applications:

1. 23/1631/MFUL – Coastguard Road Ltd Devonshire Road Heathpark Industrial Estate Honiton EX14 1SD – Development of 17x commercial units
2. 24/1504/FUL – 6 Honeysuckle Drive Honiton EX14 2YL – Proposed single storey rear extension

Councillors resolved to have no objection to either application. 

64/24     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 his letter about the broadband situation in Gittisham village had been published in three newspapers.  He has also written to the relevant government minister.   He is trying to arrange a meeting with Keri Denton, Programme Director for Connecting Devon and Somerset and will invite her to a future parish council meeting.  Cllr Powell said he would also be approaching BT and Virgin.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
  • 24/0988/FUL – Parkers East, Gittisham EX14 3AS.  Proposal to repair and preserve existing brick and timber greenhouse within the curtilage of a listed building.  Approval.
  • 24/1197/PIP – Land Adjacent To Hamlet House Nags Head Road Gittisham EX14 3PB. Permission in principle application for the conversion of an existing building into a single dwelling.  Refusal. 

• To receive an update on Highways 

02 – 14 Sept 2000-0600 nightly. Works on A30 for repairs.

25 Sept – 01 Oct. Devonshire Road/Rowan Close. Minor works opposite old Jurassic Fibre warehouse for land clearance on north side.

Cllr Rowe added that the grass matting had been installed at the Old Elm Road site.

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

The clerk said EDDC had confirmed that the second tranche of S106 funds from Hayne Farm had been received in February 2024, totalling £131,126.43.  Members agreed that discussions should take place at the forthcoming parish council meetings to decide what should be done with this money in a way that benefits Gittisham parishioners. 

ACTION: Clerk to contact EDDC to check criteria for spend. 

• To receive an update on public transport

Cllr Orchard said he had written to Stagecoach and DCC mid-July with a list of late running or non-arrival 44 buses. Their Customer Services spoke to the depot, and during August there have been no reported problems.

Bus timetable through Gittisham changes 01 September.  New timetables have been posted, plus Cllr Orchard has added large print summary of departures to both notice boards.  Slight alterations, generally earlier, to eliminate buses meeting in the lanes.

Network Rail have had a couple of landslips near the Honiton tunnel, creating cancellations to services.

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

Cllr Rowe said that EDDC officers were working on a plan for the Old Elm Road rewilding site. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine explained that English Heritage had submitted a report in the wake of the planning application.  GCLT is appointing a heritage consultant to advise on the issues and a meeting with English Heritage has been arranged for the beginning of October.        

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

Cllr Powell said that it was possible that DCC’s Rights of Way department could draft an agreement between the parish council and any landowner, and could pay for establishment and maintenance of any potential footpaths.  He outlined some possible routes which did not involve passing over Combe Estate land. 

ACTION: Cllr Powell to contact Tom Green at DCC, as well as Combe Estate to outline DCC’s position. 

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

The Chair said the play area had been well used over the summer holidays, which was encouraging.  Cllrs Rowe and Powell had addressed most of the issues in the annual safety inspection report. 

Cllr Orchard said some trimming was needed of the inside hedge, and Cllr Rowe added that the hedge was getting high opposite Parkers.

ACTION: Cllr Rowe to order a sign which indicates it is the parish play area.  Chair and others to check situation with those whose properties are next to the play area.

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

Members agreed that lengthsman services were necessary in the parish, and discussed whether some of the work was the responsibility of the landowners and / or tenant farmers.  The clerk explained how two other neighbouring parish councils have contracted a lengthsman’s services and the level of remuneration.  She added that she had sent a thank you card to Len Abbott on behalf of the parish council.  Members resolved to approve attendance of the clerk and Chair at a DALC course on upcoming changes in the law regarding procurement at a cost of £36 each inc VAT.

65/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was nothing to report this month.

66/24     To approve the September payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £254.34 clerk’s salary + £22.26 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 6 for agendas, minutes & June meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10349)

NEST (clerk’s pension) £26.78

The clerk said the second half of the annual precept had been received, as well as the S106 money for the outdoor ping pong table.  Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £26,149.40 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account).  They agreed that discussions on how to spend some of the reserves should feature in a forthcoming parish council meeting.

67/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

68/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Future projects; funding of Gittisham village fete 2025; lengthsman.

69/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

None.

70/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 3^rd October and Thursday 7th November 2024 at 7.30pm. 

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2130 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

3rd October 2024

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr J Twist, Cllr Adam Powell,

In attendance: Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr D Valentine, Cllr M Walker, Cllr P Orchard, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), PCSO Darren England

Before the start of the meeting, Nicole Stacey & Graham Hutton from Baker Estates outlined the scope of the additional development of 37 homes at Hayne Farm which has already received outline consent.  Three of these properties will be for ‘affordable’ purchase but not available for social rent. Mr Hutton said it was outside the scope of the plan, but it may be possible to install a surface rainwater pipe next to plot 34.  Members heard that the road layout has changed since the first iteration of the plan, as well as levels and drainage infrastructure.  Councillors discussed the possibility of a footpath through the site in line with the proposals already discussed with Combe Estate.

Nicole Stacey & Graham Hutton left the meeting.

1. To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

2.   To receive declarations of interest

Cllr Twist declared an interest in agenda item 3b (minute ref. 3b) as her home is adjacent to the proposed development.  Cllr Rowe declared an interest in agenda item 4 (minute ref. 4) as he is a member of the village fete committee.

3. To consider the following planning applications:

1. 24/0467/PDR Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Prior approval (Class R) for a change of use of agricultural buildings to a flexible commercial use within Classes B8 (Storage and Distribution), and Class E (Commercial, business or service) use.

Councillors expressed their disappointment at the lack of timely information regarding a) as part of the track which serves the proposed development is in the parish.  (EDDC’s case officer has agreed that a formal consultation can be sent to Gittisham as an adjoining parish.)  In addition some parishioners have objected to the application.  The clerk agreed to ask EDDC’s advice on next steps, including whether the applicant could provide more information in person at a future parish council meeting.

Cllr Twist left the meeting.

b. 24/1420/MRES Land Off Hayne Lane Gittisham Honiton EX14 3PD – Reserved matters application in respect of matters of appearance, landscaping, layout and scale for the construction of 37 no. residential dwellings and associated garages, infrastructure and landscaping all in association with outline permission 22/1322/MOUT

Members resolved to have no objection to b), but they requested that the work be completed in one go to minimise disruption to existing residents.  They expressed concern over the removal of asbestos and urged that this work should be done in a way which complies with the highest standards of safety.  Members recommended a flat grassed area which can accommodate family-type activities such as table tennis, and they would like access to the western boundary to be maintained in managed land rather than private ownership. 

Cllr Twist returned to the meeting.

4.     To approve the following payments

Michael Poll play area grass cutting £65 (inv. 10340)

Members resolved to make this payment.

Cllr Rowe left the meeting.

Gittisham Fete upfront costs (advertising, band, fencing, hall hire etc.) £500

Members resolved to make this payment, and requested a discussion over future funding sources for the fete.

Cllr Rowe returned to the meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 1855 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

5th September 2024

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr J Twist, Cllr Adam Powell, Cllr P Orchard

In attendance: Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), two members of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), PCSO Darren England

Before the start of the meeting, one member of the public spoke regarding planning application 24/1197/PIP – Land Adjacent To Hamlet House, Nags Head Road, Gittisham.  He said that it concerns a small barn measuring 7 x 4 metres, where he would like to live.  He has owned it since 1992 and uses it currently as a building store.  He outlined its planning history.    

David Valentine spoke as a member of the public and chair of Gittisham CLT.  Members discussed the proposals for renewable energy within the CLT development, and Mr Valentine explained that certain renewable energy installations outweighed the ongoing costs that would be borne ultimately by residents in the affordable properties.  The CLT properties will be provided with air source heat pumps, but the Combe Estate properties will not be heated in the same way.

41/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

42/24        To confirm the minutes of the meeting held on 6th June 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 6th June 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

43/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

April 2024:

Hamlett Close – 1 anti-social behaviour; 1 x violence & sexual offences. 

Nether Close – 1 x violence & sexual offences; 1 x public order

Hedge Field Close – 3 x public order; 2 anti-social behaviour

Cypress Close – 1 x violence & sexual offences

Rowan Close – 1 x violence & sexual offences

Beech Walk – 1 x violence & sexual offences

Parsonage Lane – 1 x violence & sexual offences.  

44/24        To receive declarations of interest

Cllrs Hall, Valentine & Walker declared an interest in agenda item 7a (minute ref. 47/24) as they are shareholders of Gittisham Community Land Trust.

45/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

Mark Sexton from Baker Estates has compiled an audit list of action points, following the walkabout with parish councillors and some Hayne Farm residents on 2nd July.  This includes points such as lampposts not working, removal of weeds, filling in fences, trimming hedges and planting trees. 

ACTION: Cllr Twist to write to Baker Estates

46/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

In his absence, Cllr Twiss sent the following report: “Now that the General Election is done and dusted Devon County Council emerges from the pre-election period, or purdah, and returns to what passes for normal and

‘business as usual’, where the council will continue to lobby for a fairer funding settlement from central government to protect and improve the services provided to the people of Devon.  Like all of us I am hoping for some decent weather in the coming weeks so we can enjoy the summer holidays with a much reduced bombardment of information from ‘politicos’ of all flavours!

DCC Highways

“Maintaining and improving the highway network across Devon remains a high priority for DCC, where better weather following a frustrating and prolonged winter period is helping staff to get to grips with the backlog of road surface defects, including potholes.  An additional £12m has been transferred in the 2024/25 budget and is being allocated to:

• Serviceability repairs and patching across the network (isolated and larger areas of potholes)
• Drainage cleaning and repairs (prevention reduces the need for repair)
• White lining

Both the serviceability repairs and patching along with the drainage improvements will be prioritised using highways intelligence data, together with input from local members like me, town and parish councils.

White lining will focus on remarking mini-roundabouts and zebra crossings across the whole of the county.

Specifically for Honiton and Gittisham a non-safety defect patching order for the patch at the entrance to Pine Park Road has just been committed to the reactive works team work schedule, along with patches at each of the following locations in Honiton: Rosewell Close, A375 Exeter Road, A375 High Street, Streamers Meadows, Jerrard Close, Old Elm Road,  Hutgate Road.

Patching in Millers Way is already in this year’s capital programme with a start date of 14th August. Other sites in Honiton which I have dates for are resurfacing of Charles Road programmed for 12th August and completion of patching areas missed in previous years in Stoney Lane programmed for 23rd July.

How would you prepare for an emergency?

A newly launched https://prepare.campaign.gov.uk/   is encouraging people to think about what they would do if they and those around them were exposed to risks ranging from floods to fires to power cuts.  The website provides simple and effective steps people can take to be more prepared. Taking action in advance will make it easier to manage an emergency if it does happen and only takes a couple of minutes to register.

Five simple things you can do now:

1. Find out if you are eligible to sign up to your gas, electricity and water supplier’s www.thepsr.co.uk/ so companies know that you need additional support.
2. Set a reminder in your phone or make a note on your calendar to check your smoke alarm once a month.
3. Write down important phone numbers on paper such as the number to report a power cut (105) and the numbers of anyone you might want to contact in an emergency.
4. Talk to your children about how and when to call 999 and what they should do if there’s an emergency, such as a fire at home.

Alcohol awareness week

Devon County Council offers advice, help on a variety of public health issues, and while little after the event, alcohol awareness week messages are nonetheless relevant as we approach a sociable time of year, for a variety of reasons, ranging from BBQ to football to Wimbledon etc. This is a chance to get thinking about your drinking, better understand alcohol myths, and make positive changes for your health.

By taking control of your drinking, you can:

• Save money
• Gain back more time
• Improve your health
• Have more energy
• Sleep better
• Reduce anxiety
• Improve mood
• Have better relationships

Find inspiration and top tips for cutting down your drinking from Alcohol Change UK at https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/tips-for-cutting-down

Each year, thousands of people experience long-term health problems because of the alcohol they drink.

This is preventable – by opening up conversations about alcohol harm, we are helping to reduce it.”

Cllr Bruce said by now the dust should have settled on the General Election and a new government will be taking shape. Whatever party holds power, he suspected there will be a few changes we will see affecting us.

As a result of the above, little action has taken place around EDDC other than planning. On which note he said he must draw attention to what he believes is a major error in the presentation of the Combe Farm shop application. Frankly he was shocked to sit and hear an officer effectively put points forward in favour of an application almost acting like an agent. He had to force the point that the application was a stand alone and any comparison with an existing business had no place in a report or presentation. This was eventually confirmed, but by then the damage was done. Had he been chair he would have instructed the committee to disregard all they had read and heard. He is still pursuing this with the chair and senior planning officers, as he is fearful that this may well set a precedent for future decisions.  Cllr Bruce added that he would be speaking to EDDC’s scrutiny committee to discuss the way in which the Combe Farm shop planning application had been decided. 

Cllr Bruce reported that potholes remain a plague on our roads with a recent farcical situation where a patch was repaired a foot away from a substantial collapse which left untouched. The result was drivers still swerving into the oncoming traffic rendering the new repair pointless and a waste of time and our money. The situation has today been rectified, but only after some rather blunt emails. It’s clear to him that the criteria for repair is not fit for purpose, and not working for the people it’s meant to keep safe. So come on DCC, scrape it and come up with a new more common sense driven policy.  Cllr Bruce has said many times, it’s not more money that’s always needed, it’s how wisely you spend it!

He concluded by saying how much he welcomed the supreme court’s ruling regarding sewerage in our waters, with the potential now for councils and individuals to take water utilities to court over the quality of our water ways. This may just be the turning point we have been desperate for.

Cllr Rowe asked if there was any update regarding repairs to the bridge railings at Riverside.  The clerk said she had sent several emails to the team at EDDC, and she agreed to forward these to Cllr Bruce.

Cllrs Bruce, Hall, Valentine & Walker left the meeting.  Cllr Rowe took the Chair.

47/24   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

Cllrs Hall, Valentine & Walker returned to the meeting & Cllr Hall took the Chair.

b. 24/1197/PIP – Land Adjacent To Hamlet House, Nags Head Road, Gittisham – Permission in principle application for the conversion of an existing building into a single dwelling

Councillors resolved to have no objection to either application.  Members welcomed the consideration of the environmental impact of the development and suggested further research into the best long-term options for renewable energy.  Regarding b), councillors noted that the land is in a flood risk zone.

One member of the public left the meeting.

48/24     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 was waiting to hear whether the letter he had circulated outlining the broadband situation in Gittisham village was factually correct.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
  • 22/2723/FUL – Combe Garden Centre, Hayne Lane, Gittisham.  New farm shop and associated landscaping works adjacent to the site of the existing Combe Garden Centre. Approval with conditions.
  • 23/1199/MFUL – Land At Weston Park, Devonshire Road, Heathpark Industrial Estate, Honiton – Construction of new industrial units (Use Class B2).  Approval with conditions.
  • ACTION: Clerk to contact EDDC’s planning enforcement officer regarding Roebuck Farm.

• To receive an update on Highways 

There are no planned works to report.  Members heard that Cllr Orchard would be attending a series of webinars organised by DCC Highways and DALC on 18^th October and 5^th December 2024.  These are designed to foster stronger relationships between local councils and the highways team.

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

The clerk said she had invoiced EDDC for the outdoor ping pong table.  News about the facility will be published in EDDC’s residents’ newsletter. 

• To receive an update on public transport

Cllr Powell reported remarks on the Hayne Farm Facebook page regarding difficulties taking children to school.  Cllr Orchard said there were long-term plans for a bus service serving Hayne Farm, but these would not be realised until the highways are adopted.

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

Cllr Rowe agreed to draft a note for residents explaining the rewilding taking place along Old Elm Road. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

There was no progress to report.            

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

There was no progress to report.  Cllr Powell said it might be worth gathering some witness statements in support, as this had been expressed at the site walkabout on 2^nd July.  He agreed to liaise with Cllr Rowe about adding some questions to the fete flyer.

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

Cllr Walker said the wild area was flourishing, and encouraged all to use the village play area particularly over the summer.  She and Cllr Rowe will investigate access to the wild area from the top road in relation to the annual safety inspection report.  Members agreed to keep this item focused on the village play area for now.

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

The Chair said that Len Abbott had resigned as lengthsman.  Councillors thanked him for his outstanding service and dedication to the parish.  The scope of lengthsman work will be discussed at the September parish council meeting.

ACTION: Clerk to seek advice from DALC and other councils over the pay levels of lengthsman work.

ACTION: Clerk to write to Len Abbott.

49/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair reported that the parish is now left without a lengthsman. She said this work is essential – the drainage and highway visibility verge strimming – but the parish council can also take this opportunity to review the specification and scope to incorporate biodiversity legislation and climate adaptation best practice.  She said she was pleased that Richard Foord would continue as constituency MP following the general election, and said the parish council would keep in touch with him about the ongoing broadband problems (the “Gittisham-sized hole”).

50/24     To approve the July payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £254.34 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for agendas, minutes & June meeting @0.45p / mile)

F Clampin £254.34 (August salary)

Len Abbott 14hrs lengthsman work (June 2024), £210.25

Len Abbott expenses (strimmer) £8.73

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10326)

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10333)

Green Tech, rewilding materials for Old Elm Road £585

Websites Ahoy, website maintenance £239.17

NEST (clerk’s pension) £26.78

NEST (clerk’s pension, August) £26.78

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £18,934.24 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

51/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

52/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Use of village hall for PC meetings; to receive a report on the Local Plan from Cllr Valentine.

53/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

Cllr Rowe reported that two bypassed culverts and the main channel under the bridge in the centre of the village are looking blocked with compacted gravel, weeds etc.  This could potentially result in stagnant water.

ACTION: Clerk to report to Tom Buxton-Smith at the EA.

Cllr Rowe said he would be attending the next meeting of Buckerell Parish Council to discuss intra-council working.

Cllr Valentine reported that he will attend a virtual meeting on 9^th August on behalf of the parish council.  The meeting has been arranged by EDDC to discuss site allocations for the new Local Plan.  EDDC has invited one representative from each parish.  Cllr Valentine will make representations directly to the working group, although the working group will not be the one deciding the allocations. 

54/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 5th September and Thursday 3^rd October 2024 at 7.30pm. 

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2115 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

5th September 2024