Parish Council Minutes

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 1^st 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 2^nd 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 1^st 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 1^st 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. 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 23^rd 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 8^th May and Thursday 5th June 2025 at 7.30pm.

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

Chair…………………………………….

8th May 2025

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:

In attendance: Fiona Clampin (clerk)

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

160/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

161/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 6th February 2025

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

162/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

There was no update on the police website from December’s figures.

163/24        To receive declarations of interest

None.

164/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

None. 

165/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

In his absence Cllr Twiss sent the following report: “I’m delighted that spring appears to have sprung and we have largely avoided a cold, but unfortunately wet winter, where this has a detrimental impact on our highways network.  Repair teams are now busy catching up with repairs, white line renewals etc.

Keeping our young people safe online

https://saferdevon.co.uk  is running a free webinar to explore digital spaces that young people engage with, how these may influence their choices and expose them to risks and practical tips and guidance to support young people to keep safe.

The free webinar will explore:

• why the digital world is a valuable space for many neuro-divergent young people
• how the online content young people interact with can shape their choices and may expose them to risks and harmful behaviours
• practical tips and guidance on creating safe and supportive online spaces for young people

This session will be led by Alistair Barfield, who is AuDHD [a term used to describe people who have both autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)], and a leading expert in neuro-divergence and digital harms.  It will take place online on Thursday 27 March at 7pm to 8pm.

Please visit the Safer Devon Eventbrite page to book your place at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/lets-talk-keeping-our-young-people-safe-online-tickets-1263976671249?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Thousands more children to receive Bikeability cycle training

More than 9,300 schoolchildren in Devon are to benefit from Bikeability cycle training this financial year, see https://www.bikeability.org.uk/ That’s thanks to a Bikeability Funding award of just over £451,000 to DCC for 2025/26.  The funding is part of £3.9 million of funding recently announced by the Government and Active Travel England (ATE) for cycling and walking projects in Devon, which was the largest settlement for any South West authority.  Bikeability cycle training provides schoolchildren with lifelong road safety skills while also improving their health and wellbeing.

Over the past 19 years, DCC has provided Bikeability cycle training to almost 120,000 young people across the county.  Adult cyclists are reminded that they can also book free confidence sessions through Active Devon at https://activedevon.org/adult-cycle-training/ The sessions, delivered by qualified bike instructors, can cater for up to three people at a time and can be tailored to suit all abilities and goals, from first-time riders to regular cyclists looking to improve their skills.  For more information on cycle training for children and adults please visit the Travel Devon webpages at https://www.traveldevon.info/cycle/cycle-training/

Councils collaborate on devolution plans

The leaders of Devon County, Plymouth City and Torbay Councils are working together to explore the creation of a Mayoral Strategic Authority.  A part of the Government’s new devolution plans, this is a once in a generation opportunity to take power out of Whitehall, bring decision-making closer to the people of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay and unlock unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation.

A Mayoral Strategic Authority promises to supercharge the region’s ability to access greater powers and unlock additional funding for economic growth and infrastructure development, such as housing and transport.  By working together, the councils aim to ensure that Devon, Plymouth and Torbay are ready to seize this unique opportunity when the government calls for further submissions of interest.  The councils also emphasised that Cornwall Council is welcome to join their discussions at any time, should they choose to reconsider.  This inclusive approach highlights the commitment to regional cooperation and shared prosperity.”

In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “At the full council meeting last week the devolution bill was raised, particularly around the fact that no mention is made in the White Paper of parish and town councils. Councillors expressed concern that very little, if any, consultation has filtered down to parish and town council level. We were told that the officers are working ‘at pace’ to get a draft ready for councillors before 21^st March deadline. We were also told that information would be disseminated to parish and town councils as soon as practical.  I raised my concerns that we were in danger of ignoring the legal requirement to go out to consultation in order to satisfy the government’s deadline, purely for political expediency.   I did not get a satisfactory answer to the above. We are having an extraordinary council meeting on 19^th March, when more details as to how and what shape our local democracy is planned to be, will be discussed.  I will push for more interaction from council officers with town and parish councils as to how this will impact the level of responsibilities that will emanate from these changes.

“On which subject the request from Gittisham parish council for a senior planning officer to attend has been passed to them. As yet there has been no response.  In fact, whereas before I could just ‘phone or email an officer, I am now required to fill in a form so that my query/question gets to the right person. This is plain bonkers, as I know who I need to speak to, and about what. So much for reducing red tape!

“At a planning meeting last week, a major application was passed despite a large number of objections raised by myself, Feniton parish council and members of the public. Whilst many of the committee were swayed by these passionately presented arguments, they were ultimately persuaded (a member of the public behind me described themselves as being brow beaten) by the officers into approving it. Many were left wondering precisely what is the point of turning up with first-hand information on the flooding in the village and the appalling state of sewerage spills, when the committee is directed by officers that these points cannot be defended if an appeal against refusal goes to the planning inspector.  I tried to advocate that they should test it in front of the inspector, but to no avail. Personally, I found it completely unacceptable to see elected councillors in a flap trying to come up with valid reasons to support their conviction to object.  I believe it is for officers to help councillors find reasons if the councillors are minded to refuse against officers’ recommendations. They have the professional background to do this. Councillors, however well trained, cannot have the same level of experience.  I have raised my concerns with the chair of planning, as this is not the first time I have witnessed this scenario in the council chamber.”

166/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Cllr Valentine said EDDC’s Local Plan is now out for public consultation until 31^st March.  Members resolved to continue for now with the parish council’s consistent objection to the allocation of sites, particularly development west of Hayne Lane. 

ACTION: Cllrs Rowe and Valentine to work on drawing up a template letter that residents can fill in if they share the parish council’s position.

167/24   To note the following planning application:

1.  

1. 1. 25/0375/PRETDD – Allotment opposite Garlands Gittisham EX14 3AJ – notification of tree works considered an exemption to 25/0012/TPO Holm Oak: removal of windblow.

Councillors noted the tree had come down, and EDDC’s recommendations for new planting.

168/24     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)

Members discussed an email from Cllr Twiss suggesting there could be talks underway with a company planning to roll out plans for fibre broadband for Gittisham.   Cllr Twiss indicated the parish council has a key role to play in requesting residents sign up for a voucher scheme now approved by BDUK.  Cllr Powell said some newspapers had printed his article about Gittisham’s broadband issues, and the Chair encouraged him to keep up the current level of activity.

ACTION: Cllr Powell to email Cllr Twiss to ask about next steps.

• To note the latest planning decision notices

23/1631/MFUL Coastguard Road Ltd Devonshire Road Heathpark Industrial Estate Honiton EX14 1SD – Development of 17no commercial units.  Approval with conditions.

24/1420/MRES Land Off Hayne Lane Gittisham 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.  Approval with conditions.

• To receive an update on Highways 

The roadworks planned through Alfington 03– 08 April have been suspended. 

• 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 were delighted to hear from Cllr Rowe that the village hall has solar panels on battery storage.  He agreed to arrange some publicity once the other works on renewable energy are complete. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said the Gittisham CLT AGM will be held on 11^th March.  He reported that the display with revised plans for the development had been well received.  EDDC has given a deadline of the end of May, but this conflicts somewhat with the requirement for an additional ecology survey which is seasonal and would take several months to carry out. 

ACTION: Clerk to enquire with EDDC when GPC can expect to receive notification of the revised planning application. 

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

Cllr Rowe reported that a Hayne Farm resident had offered to start a petition requesting more footpaths in the parish.  Cllr Powell said he would be happy to discuss this with the person. 

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

The clerk said the annual safety inspection had been carried out, and the first grass cut had been done.

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

The clerk agreed to continue finding other lengthsmen, and also a contractor for one-off ditch clearing. 

ACTION: Cllr Rowe to send his recent videos of flooding at Iron Bridge to DCC’s Highways officer, and arrange another on-site meeting.

169/24     To receive a report from the Chair

Members noted that Gittisham PCC has permission from Combe Estate to install a clothing bank near the parish room to raise money for the church.

170/24     To approve the March 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, vacancies & February meeting @0.45p / mile)

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £22,773.36 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

171/24 To consider the casual vacancies in Gittisham Village & Gittisham Vale

The clerk said EDDC had not received any requests for an election by 25^th February deadline, so GPC can proceed to co-opt two people to the vacancies – one to represent Gittisham Vale and the other to represent Gittisham Village. 

Cllr Rowe said he had applied to LCIU for former councillor Maggie Walker to be recognised with a lifetime achievement award.  Members resolved to purchase a £50 voucher from Perkins pet supplies in Ottery St Mary for former councillor Janet Twist, and £50 in book tokens for Maggie Walker from the Curious Otter bookshop.

ACTION: Clerk to advertise vacancies.

172/24 To consider the level of ward representation

The clerk said DALC had advised her to contact EDDC’s Electoral Services about this matter, and she is awaiting a response.

173/24   To consider the parish council’s grant-giving policy, publication scheme, complaints policy, anti-fraud & corruption policy, Freedom of Information Scheme and code of conduct

It was resolved to approve the above policies.

174/24   To consider the Parish Council’s Statement of Internal Control, Financial Regulations and Risk Management

It was resolved to approve the above policies.

175/24 Clerk’s report

The clerk said she would be away for work for the next scheduled parish council meeting, so members resolved to meet at the earliest possible opportunity on her return.  See minute ref. 178/24.

176/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Lengthsman recruitment; casual vacancies and Ward representation.

177/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

Cllr Rowe said the light in the village telephone box may soon need replacing.

Members noted with pleasure that the broken railings at Riverside had been replaced.

Cllr Rowe asked if the parish council would be marking VE Day in any way.  The Chair replied that the coffee & cake event in the village hall in May would have a VE Day theme.

ACTION: Cllr Powell to arrange another meeting with Combe Estate to discuss parish council activity.

ACTION: Cllr Rowe to ask lighting contractors at the village hall if they will look at the telephone box.

178/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 17^th April and Thursday 8^th May 2025 at 7.30pm.

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

Chair…………………………………….

17th April 2025

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard, Cllr A Powell

In attendance: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), one member of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: PCSO Darren England

142/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

143/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 9th January 2025

The minutes of the meeting held on 9th January 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

144/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

December 2024:

Meadow Acre – 1 x anti-social behaviour 

Hedge Field Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Hayne Lane – 1 x violence and sexual offences

145/24        To receive declarations of interest

Cllrs Hall and Valentine declared an interest in minute ref. 149/24 b).  The Chair lives in a neighbouring property and Cllr Valentine uses the allotment.

146/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

None. 

147/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

Cllr Twiss said that as DCC moves in to the budget-setting month, it has been just as difficult as in previous years to be in a position to present a budget to full council later this month which balances and provides the best taxpayer value for council services.

He outlined where the £784 million council payer money goes; 79 per cent alone goes to Adult and Children services, which greatly reduces the amount available for other things that matter most to residents, such as roads and public transport. The DCC part of the council tax bill is proposed to rise by 4.99 per cent, which includes 2 per cent for social care, but is less than some other councils.  DCC is the least well-funded county council in England and the next increase in what is termed ‘core funding’ for 2025/26 is 2.6 per cent, around the current rate of inflation.

This is set against a period of uncertainty in terms of Local Government, which is likely to see the end of district councils and the county council in Devon, replaced by unitary authorities, after the Local Governance Review is completed and the Government decides on the way forward. A far more detailed breakdown of how the budget is compiled can be found at https://democracy.devon.gov.uk/documents/s50974/Budget%20report.pdf  

Schools in all districts across Devon now covered by Mental Health Support Team

Children and Family Health Devon (CFHD) is proud to announce that schools across all districts in Devon are now able to access support from the Mental Health Support Team in Schools (MHST). This milestone achievement ensures that from 2025, nearly 70 per cent of children attending schools within Devon and Torbay can access early intervention that supports children and young people with their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

MHST’s initiative represents a significant investment in the future of children and young people across Devon and Torbay, bringing specialised mental health support to the classroom. With this rollout, MHST is not only levelling the playing field for students across all backgrounds but is also providing educators with powerful tools to create an enriched and mindful learning environment.

The Mental Health Support Team in Schools (MHST) is an NHS service commissioned to work with a number of schools across Devon and Torbay and in the community.  MHST offers early intervention to help children and young people with their mental health and emotional wellbeing.  MHST offers individual and group low-intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (Li-CBT) evidence-based interventions. We additionally work in schools to support their ‘whole school approach’ to mental health by offering:

• • workshops and training to children, families and education staff

• • consultations

• • Mental Health Ambassador Programme

• • Mental Health Audits and much more.

For more information on The Mental Health Support Team in Schools (MHST) or Children and Family Health Devon, visit the Children and Family Health Devon website at https://childrenandfamilyhealthdevon.nhs.uk/   

Free energy efficiency support for your home on offer

Householders who want to make their homes more energy efficient but are unsure of what steps to take next can get free impartial advice from trusted local experts at https://www.energysavingdevon.org.uk/   

The Energy Saving Devon Advice Service provides personalised consultations, helping residents to make informed decisions about improving energy efficiency in their homes.  This could include a free home visit from a local energy advisor to help you understand which energy saving measures are best suited to your home, advice on grants you may be eligible for as well as solutions to issues such as damp and mould, condensation or under heating.

Energy Saving Devon is a partnership of all the local authorities in Devon, local community energy organisations and other strategic partners, administered by Devon County Council.  The Energy Saving Devon team will be able to advise you on the suitability of your home for measures such as insulation, energy efficient windows, heating and hot water systems and renewable energy systems like solar panels.  Retrofitting these measures can make your home warmer and more comfortable as well as providing healthier living conditions, lower energy costs and lower carbon emissions.

To find out more, or to book your free home visit, contact your local community energy organisation by ‘phone or WhatsApp on 0800 999 1439, or email The Chair said she would contact  the service to see if they would be interested in holding an event in the village hall.

Cllr Bruce said he noted with some dismay the BBC story about charging being introduced to use public toilets in our area, and concur with the anger of those interviewed.  He has argued many times that, despite it being viewed as a non-statutory obligation by the council, in a civilised society it should be. Many would argue that we pay enough in rates as it is, he said, and we have an ageing population when unhindered access to toilets becomes a very relevant issue.  Indeed, many of our residents and visitors of every age may need these facilities urgently and not have the means to pay. Sadly, he said, this appears to be yet another blow to the beleaguered pensioners in our district.  Figures to clarify whether it would be more cost effective to keep some of the venerable toilet blocks, like those at Seaton, Budleigh and Honiton, rather than replace them with an ugly new edifice did not materialise in debate at EDDC. So Cllr Bruce said he was none the wiser as to how long the bill for the new would have covered maintenance of the old.

The strategic plan will have passed an important milestone by the time this report is submitted, said Cllr Bruce.  A decision will have been made on the date for the start of public consultation, which will have to be before March 25th. The implications of this plan are profound and wide ranging. He encouraged all residents to take part in the consultation, as this plan will shape our area for many years to come. Already, despite having gone through the torturous journey to get to the allocations provisionally agreed, the goal posts have moved, and we find that the process has only produced 2.9 years of housing allocation instead of the government target of 5. So it’s going to be somewhat concerning to see where any further allocation will come from. Cllr Bruce said he remained hopeful that the hard reality that we cannot keep building housing on valuable land will eventually hit home. We shall see.

148/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Councillors discussed at length how the parish council should proceed in the light of the decision by EDDC’s Strategic Planning Committee to approve a policy which sees land west of Hayne Lane allocated for a mixed-use development to provide 310 homes and 14.6 ha to accommodate employment.  The policy will still be subject to an examination in public by a planning inspector, but councillors were undecided on what could be gained by continuing to oppose what seems to be inevitable – particularly given Government targets for house building.  It was agreed that Cllr Bruce should make enquiries at EDDC as to how much input the parish council can have in developing the masterplan for the area.  This would be in order to represent the views of the parish and potentially influence the outcomes, especially when it comes to footpath links.

Cllr Twiss reported that the Clyst Valley had a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan in place (LCWIP), and the parish council should ask EDDC if something similar would be planned for this proposed allocation.  He also suggested the parish council should ask if an infrastructure plan exists to support this mixed-use development.

Cllr Bruce left the meeting.

Cllr Twiss said he hoped residents would begin to see improvements in the condition of roads, as there is more money available to carry out repairs.

149/24   To consider the following planning applications:

1. 1. 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

Cllrs Hall and Valentine left the meeting.  Cllr Rowe took the Chair.

1. 1. 25/0061/TCA – Allotment opposite Garlands Gittisham EX14 3AJ – G1 – a group of x1 Ash, x1 multi-stemmed Laurel and x1 multi-stemmed Holm Oak: – reduce the crown height and the crown spread of 1 x Ash tree, reducing the crown height by up 1.5 metres and reducing the crown spread by 2m on the trees eastern aspect, making natural target pruning cuts of up to 50 mm in diameter; – reduce in height, to approximately 2m above ground level the Laurel, pruning back all side branch growth from the eastern aspect, removing branch lengths of up to 3m and making natural target pruning cuts of up to 75 mm; – reduce the crown height and spread of the Holm Oak, reducing to approximately 3m above ground level and reducing the end weight and leverage of all stems; creating a new hedge line along this boundary.

Councillors resolved to have no objection to a).  They asked if b) could be revised, following the recent storm damage to trees in the allotment. 

Cllrs Hall and Valentine returned to the meeting and Cllr Hall retook the Chair.

150/24     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 outlined the options available at present to overcome the challenges so far experienced bringing superfast broadband to Gittisham village.  He suggested linking up with other communities that have also been failed in the past.  Cllr Twiss reported some recent discussions with his contacts, and asked Cllr Powell to draw up a summary of the history of attempts to bring superfast broadband to the parish.

Cllr Twiss left the meeting.

• To note the latest planning decision notices

24/2260/VAR 1 Hamlet Cottages Weston Honiton EX14 3PB – Variation of Condition Number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 21/2741/VAR (Variation of condition number 2 (approved plans) of application 21/1295/FUL (Demolition of existing workshop to be replaced with a new self-build dwelling) – modified design.  Approval with conditions.

24/2200/FUL 1 Hamlett Close Gittisham EX14 3FR – Conversion of existing garage to living accommodation, with first floor extension over.  Addition of external cladding.  Approval.

• To receive an update on Highways 

17–19 February – road to Catshayes Farm closed for installation of replacement bridge railings.  A diversion will be in place.

03– 08 April: road closed through Alfington again for SW Water.

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

Cllr Orchard said he had attended Honiton Town Council’s Sports Working Group meeting on 15^th January.  There was no progress to report, as EDDC had not convened the meetings scheduled in October 2024.

Cllr Powell suggested the parish council would need to think about how CIL could be used, if there was further development in the parish.  Members discussed the work identified following a walkabout of Hayne Farm with Mark Sexton from Baker Estates, and agreed a follow-up meeting should be arranged.

ACTION: Clerk to check with Baker Estates that missing safety fence near play area is included on the list. 

• To receive an update on public transport

Cllr Orchard said Network Rail would be carrying out work on the railway line between Salisbury and Yeovil Junction from Saturday 22 to Friday 28 February 2025.  During the closure revised trains and replacement buses will operate.

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

Cllr Rowe said he had managed to speak to Paul at EDDC, but the council is waiting for a new staff member to join the team before any progress can be made.  Members discussed purchasing a thermal imaging camera to investigate where leaks are. 

The Chair said she had been in touch with DCC about potential solutions for the flooding underneath the Iron Bridge.  During one week recently, flood water made it impassable on two separate occasions and a number of vehicles were stuck in the flood water.  The Neighbourhood Highways Officer has suggested the parish council could fund a depth gauge to alert road users to the height of flood water.  He visited the site and confirmed it is not an issue with the capacity of the drainage system or how it works, it is simply the amount of debris being washed into this area which is blocking the gully grates. There was some discussion about how effective a depth marker would be, but members agreed to pay for the gauge. 

ACTION: Clerk to check how soon the gauge can be installed and whether the cost of £545 includes installation and VAT. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said the revised plans for the development would be on display in Gittisham Village Hall on Tuesday 11^th February, and also at the community kitchen during the same week.  He reported that following comments by DCC’s ecologist, further survey work is required to be satisfied there will be no impact on populations of dormice and great crested newts.   The Gittisham CLT AGM will be held on 11^th March.

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

Cllr Powell said he had been in touch with Tom Green at DCC, who said any new footpaths should be progressed through the planning system. 

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

The clerk said she had requested the annual safety inspection.

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

The clerk said she had tried to contact other lengthsmen recommended by other parish councils, but so far to no avail. 

151/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said she had received messages of thanks from the organisations in receipt of the parish council’s donations.

152/24     To consider joining the Blackdown Hills Parish Network

Members discussed the benefits of being members of the network, following an invitation from the Chair of Otterford Parish Council (and Chair of the BHPN).  They resolved to join at an annual cost of £25.

153/24     To approve the February payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £19.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for agendas, minutes & January meeting; travel Ottery – Cllr Twist’s house 10-mile round trip x2 @0.45p / mile)

DCC Highways £545 (ex VAT) depth gauge for Iron Bridge

Community Heartbeat Trust defib annual support package (Hayne Farm) £162

Blackdown Hills Parish Network annual subscription £25

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £23,081.69 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

154/24   To update the parish council’s bank mandate and add Cllr Rowe as authorised signatory

Members agreed to add Cllr Rowe to the parish council’s bank mandate as authorised signatory and account manager.

155/24 To consider the casual vacancies in Gittisham Village & Gittisham Vale

The clerk said if EDDC receives no request for an election at the end of a period of 14 working days from 6th February (ie by 25th), the Democratic Services Department will advise GPC that it may co-opt two people to the vacancies – one to represent Gittisham Vale and the other to represent Gittisham Village. 

ACTION: Members to suggest gifts for former Cllrs Twist and Walker.

156/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

157/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Lengthsman recruitment; casual vacancies and Ward representation.

158/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

None.

159/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 7th March and Thursday 3rd April 2025 at 7.30pm.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2145 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

7th March 2025

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard

In attendance: One member of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr A Powell, Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England

Before the start of the meeting, one member of the public living on the Hayne Farm development offered to be involved in any projects that would improve biodiversity in the parish.  They said they’d already begun installing specific plants which encourage pollinators at their home and elsewhere.  The member of the public said they’d like to see more appropriate plants and trees planted at Hayne Farm.  Cllr Valentine observed that EDDC’s emerging Local Plan would have to adhere to biodiversity net gain principles, which means that whatever the biodiversity is in a given area, an equivalent amount plus ten per cent has to be achieved in new developments. 

One member of the public left the meeting.

123/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

124/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 5th December 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 5th December 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

125/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

November 2024:

Hedge Field Close – 2 x violence and sexual offences 

Hamlett Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Nether Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Parsonage Lane – 2 x violence and sexual offences

ACTION: Clerk to enquire what the descriptions mean in practice.

126/24        To receive declarations of interest

None.

127/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

The clerk said Michael Poll confirmed he had cut the wild area grass in September 2024.  The Chair said this should also be done in May, with the clippings left on the ground for two weeks and then removed.

ACTION: Cllr Rowe to contact Devon Wildlife Trust for advice on grass cutting in a wild area. 

128/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

In his absence, Cllr Twiss sent the following report:

Highways

“The subject of roads, drains and ditches is a very frequent topic in correspondence with constituents, where a lack of adequate funding makes it nigh on impossible to maintain the largest highways network in England at more than 8,000 miles to an acceptable standard. In large part this is because most of DCC’s funding goes on Adult and Children’s Services operations, much of it legally required, where demand has increased massively, without being followed by extra funding to cover the rising demand.  It was possible to put an extra £12m in to pothole repair and patching which has had a positive impact on the network.

Just before Christmas, DCC received good news that Devon has been allocated £83.6m from the Government for repairs, more than any other council in the U.K. This is broken down as £61.7m in 2025/26 and £22.5m in 2026/27.  This will have a significant impact on the quality of the highways network, but is subject to certain criteria being met including highways, bridges, cycle ways etc and is not just for fixing potholes. In the coming weeks and months, plans will be drawn up as to how this funding can be put to best use.

Stop smoking

The DCC Public Health Team is promoting the ‘Stop smoking, Stop for Life’ campaign. Devon’s free Stop Smoking Service can help people to achieve a smoke-free journey in 2025.  The friendly team of expert coaches guide you through a personalised 12-week programme of behaviour change coaching, practical tools and nicotine replacement therapy. They’ll make quitting easier and more achievable than ever.  Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and wellbeing.

Here are some of the top benefits:

• Improved Health: Your body starts to heal almost immediately. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop, and after just 72 hours, your breathing becomes easier. Long-term, you’ll reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
• Better Breathing: Your lung capacity improves, making it easier to stay active and enjoy daily activities.
• More Energy: With better circulation and oxygen levels, you’ll feel more energetic and less fatigued.
• Enhanced Senses: Your sense of taste and smell return, letting you fully enjoy your favourite foods.
• Healthier Skin: Stopping smoking improves blood flow, giving your skin a more radiant, youthful appearance.
• Financial Savings: Cutting out cigarettes saves you hundreds or even thousands of pounds a year.
• Protecting Loved Ones: Quitting reduces second-hand smoke exposure, creating a healthier environment for family and friends. Everyday smoke-free is a step towards a longer, healthier life!

Start your smoke free journey today: https://stopforlifedevon.org/get-started/ or tel. 0800 122 3866.  For general queries: and for referrals:

Cold weather and health

Whilst somewhat stating the obvious for much of this and circumstances clearly vary for a variety of reasons, but nonetheless worth repeating: exposure to cold weather can affect anyone, and some people are particularly at risk. These include:

• older people (aged 65 years and over)
• people with long-term health conditions such as cardiovascular or respiratory disease, or a mental health condition
• pregnant women
• young children (particularly those aged 5 and under)
• people with learning disabilities
• people at risk of falls
• people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
• people who are housebound or have low mobility
• people living in deprived circumstances

Keep your home warm

You should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you. Low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health, especially if you have medical conditions or are older.  Simple changes can help to keep you and your home warm. These include:

• try to heat rooms you spend a lot of time in, such as the living room or bedroom, to at least 18°C
• try to reduce draughts; you can fit draft excluders around doors cheaply
• keep your bedroom windows closed at night
• wear several layers of thinner clothing; this could keep you warmer than one thicker layer

Seek financial support

People in financial difficulty may find it more difficult to heat their homes sufficiently.  This increases the risk of becoming unwell due to cold exposure. There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to help you make your home more energy-efficient, improve your heating or help manage energy bills. There are also support measures in place to help with the cost of living, especially for those on low incomes.  For example, if you claim certain benefits or tax credits, you may be eligible for an extra payment from the government to help with the cost of living. The government has published energy-saving tips to help save money on bills.

Look after yourself and others

There are other things you can do to reduce risks from cold exposure to yourself and others around you.  You can get vaccinated to help reduce risk from respiratory illnesses during the winter. This is particularly important if you have certain long-term health conditions that mean you are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather. You can check your eligibility for a flu vaccination or COVID-19 booster online. Contact your pharmacist or GP or visit the NHS England website to learn more.

You should treat minor winter ailments like colds or sore throats promptly. NHS England provides information on steps you can take to manage colds or sore throats yourself, and when it may be appropriate to visit your local pharmacist for further advice and treatment.  If you are worried about your health or feeling down, contact your local pharmacist, NHS 111 or your GP, who will all be able to offer advice and support. In an emergency, dial 999.

When you are indoors, there are things you can do that will help keep you warm and reduce the risk of developing medical problems, for example:

• try not to sit still for more than an hour or so
• if you find it difficult to move about, stretching your arms and legs can also help keep you warm
• if you have visitors, it can help stop the spread of germs to ventilate the room for a few minutes before and after they arrive; you might be more comfortable leaving the window open during their visit, if it’s not too cold.

When out and about, wear shoes with a good grip to avoid slips and falls on slippery or icy surfaces.  If bad weather is forecast, plan ahead and check that you’ve got enough medication and food in case it’s harder to leave the house. If you cannot leave the house, try to identify others who might be able to help pick up food and medication on your behalf. 

Other people around you, particularly older neighbours, family friends and neighbours, may need extra support during cold weather. To support others you can:

• keep in touch with them and ask whether they are feeling unwell, or whether they need any practical help
• if bad weather is forecast, see if they need any help stocking up on food and medication
• if you are worried about someone else’s health, contact your local pharmacist, your GP or NHS 111, who will all be able to offer advice and support
• if you think they may have hypothermia, contact NHS 111 for further assessment, and in an emergency dial 999; typical signs that someone may be suffering from hypothermia include shivering, slow breathing, tiredness or confusion and pale, cold skin.

In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “It’s been relatively quiet over the Christmas period with much of the council work concentrating on weather-related work, especially our coastal towns.

“It’s becoming increasingly difficult to keep track of where we are with the strategic plan, as there appears to have been a need to revisit sites previously deferred due to a shortfall in the achieved housing numbers. This whole process, in my opinion, has been poorly handled by the council. There has been limited, sometimes missing, public consultation on many aspects of the process, which I believe has left the public disconnected and disenfranchised with this important element of council work. It will be interesting to see what happens with some of these sites if they come before the planning inspector.

“Unfortunately the results of Thursday’s full council debate on the government’s devolution white paper will not be available for this Parish meeting. However, the direction of travel is evident by the recent statement from all the Devon district leaders. A view I share is that the proposals are detrimental to local democracy, and will lead to a drop in the delivery of services to our communities. Somerset’s example of this change is far from encouraging.”

Councillors also discussed the regular flooding at Iron Bridge underneath the A30.  The Chair said she would contact Cllr Twiss to see if anything can be done, as cars often get stuck there following periods of heavy rain.  Cllr Orchard added that the grill had been cleared from the balancing pond. 

ACTION: Chair to contact Cllr Twiss re old A30.

129/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Cllr Valentine outlined the policy approved by EDDC in December, and quoted from Chapter 6: “Land to the west of Hayne Lane, on the western side of Honiton, is allocated for a mixed-use development to provide:

• 310 homes
• 6 hectares of land to accommodate employment and community uses.

“This allocation will need to come forward on the basis of an agreed masterplan for the whole site that clearly demonstrates how comprehensive development will be undertaken and implemented. Southern parts of the site are in the East Devon National Landscape and this area will require very careful design to take account of its landscape setting.  On the western edges the site is close to the historic village of Gittisham and particular sensitivity will need to be attached to preventing adverse heritage impacts. These southerly and westerly parts will be best suited for open space uses. 

“Commercial and employment uses will need to be concentrated to the north of the railway line bisecting the site with residential uses to the south.  Community facilities, to include a shop or shops and a hall, will need to be provided within or next to residential parts of the development.  There will be the need for attractive and safe pedestrian and cycle linkages between the southern and northern parts of the site (ideally utilising an existing passage under the railway that lies in a roughly mid-way point in the allocation).”  

Cllr Valentine suggested the parish council should approach Cllr Bruce to find out if EDDC can offer any guidance on GPC being involved in any future discussions and plans to develop the area.  He added that it may be too early at this point, as the Local Plan examination in public is not expected to take place until later this year.

The clerk said she had circulated GPC’s letter of complaint to EDDC to all East Devon parish clerks.  Some had replied and said their own experience of the Local Plan site selection process had been similar.

ACTION: Clerk to ask Lympstone Parish Council if it has received any response from EDDC following LPC’s complaint.

130/24     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)
  • ACTION: Cllr Rowe to draft some information for the Gittisham website outlining the story so far.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
• None.

• To receive an update on Highways 

16 January – road to Catshayes Farm closed for installation of South West Water sewer level equipment

03– 08 April: road closed through Alfington again for SW Water.

ACTION: Cllr Orchard to ask Cllr Twiss to enquire as to why it’s felt necessary to close the road during term time, with corresponding disruption to school transport.

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

Cllr Orchard said he would attend Honiton Town Council’s Sports Working Group meeting on 15^th January to discuss projects.   

• To receive an update on public transport

Members agreed to continue with the clipboard in the village & Vale bus shelters to note late-running services. 

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

The clerk said she had received advice from DALC as to whether the parish council could apply for an interest-free loan to cover the village hall committee’s costs of replacing windows and doors, and installation of solar panels, insulation and replacement of lighting.  This would be until grant aid is paid.  However, DALC’s advice was as follows: “The council has a power to grant funds, and this might be an option in this instance. However, you do not have powers to take out a loan on behalf of a third party.  A couple of additional points for consideration: firstly, once funds are in the council’s bank account, they become “councils’ funds”. Secondly, NALC’s view on “holding funds for a third party” is that it should not be done.  You would, in effect be a “banking facility” and this is not within your powers.

“You could take out a loan and then “gift” funds to the Village Hall Charity, however, there are stringent rules about councils borrowing and a specific process councils must follow when applying for a loan, for any purpose. We would also suggest you appoint a solicitor for appropriate legal advice if you do consider going down this route.”

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said the Gittisham CLT board would be meeting on 14^th January to discuss next steps.

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

There was no update on this.

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

The clerk said she had asked DALC for advice whether it was necessary to go out to tender every year for the maintenance work.  DALC’s advice was that “if your financial regulations don’t require you to go out for tender, then there’s no need to do so, provided that the council is sure it is getting best value for money.”  GPC’s financial regulations state: “where it is intended to enter into a contract: (1) exceeding £5000 in value for the supply of goods or materials or for the execution of works or specialist services other than such goods, materials, works or specialist services as are excepted as set out in paragraph (a) the Clerk shall invite tenders from at least three firms.”  Therefore it is not necessary to tender for the maintenance contract while it still comes in under £5,000. 

Members resolved to approve Michael Poll’s services for another year to maintain the play area, with a slight increase from £65 to £70 / cut.

ACTION: Clerk to contact Alvian Ltd about annual safety inspection.

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

The clerk said DALC had clarified that councillors cannot be paid for services provided to the parish council, such as lengthsman work. The parish council has budgeted for £1,600 for the year, which would equate to £20 / hr for 80 hours’ work.

ACTION: Clerk to contact lengthsmen suggested by other parish councils to see if they would be interested in tendering for the work.

131/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was nothing to report this month.

132/24     To approve the January payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

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

Information Commissioner               £35 Annual membership (direct debit)

TRIP                      £80         Donation

Force                      £80         Donation

Hospiscare            £80         Donation

Diabetes UK         £80         Donation

Citizens Advice    £80         Donation

Gittisham Gazette printing costs, December 2024 £15

Gittisham PCC, parish room hire Oct–Dec 2024 £30

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £23,378.93 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

133/24   To agree the budget for 2025-26

The clerk circulated a spreadsheet showing forecast expenditure for 2025/26 and likely expenditure for the rest of the current tax year.  Members resolved to set budget expenditure for 2025-26 at £10,730, with future projects a separate total expenditure of £12,200.  There is VAT still to be claimed of approximately £1,704.32.

134/24   To set the precept for 2025-26

Councillors voted unanimously to increase the precept to £10,927.25, the balance of the budget to be taken from reserves.  Members agreed that as the population of the parish had continued to increase, this does not represent a rise at the individual level.

135/24   To consider donations to organisations under S137 and Transport

Members agreed to donate £80 each to TRIP, Force, Hospiscare, Citizens Advice & Diabetes UK.

136/24 To discuss future projects requiring parish council involvement

Councillors agreed that other plants could be included in the money set aside in the 2025/26 budget for tree planting.  

137/24 To consider the casual vacancy in Gittisham Village

The Chair said Janet Twist had resigned from the parish council.  Councillors joined the Chair in thanking Janet for her dedication to the council and service to the local community.  There are now two vacancies on the parish council, one to represent Gittisham Vale and the other to represent Gittisham Village.  If you are interested in taking up one of these roles, please contact for more details.  The posts will be advertised in due course.

ACTION: Clerk to check level of councillor representation as outlined in DALC email previously.

138/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

139/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Lengthsman recruitment; bank mandate; casual vacancies.

140/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

None.

141/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 6th February and Thursday 7th March 2025 at 7.30pm.

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

Chair…………………………………….

6th February 2025

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr J Twist, Cllr P Orchard

In attendance: Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr A Powell, Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England

Before the start of the meeting, the Chair said the parish council sent its condolences to Michael Harris at Combe Farm and the family of Mike Newcombe, following the fire on 29^th November 2024.

107/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

108/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 7th November 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 7th November 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

109/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

October 2024:

Hedge Field Close – 3 anti-social behaviour

Hamlett Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Meadow Acre – 1 x other theft

Village Hall area – 1 x violence and sexual offences

110/24        To receive declarations of interest

None.

111/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

The clerk said she had cancelled the former lengthsman’s insurance (which had been provided by GPC).  Mark Sexton from Baker Estates has not yet replied to an email requesting another walkabout at Hayne Farm.

112/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

In his absence, Cllr Twiss sent the following report:

Local Government Funding Reform

“The ‘big ticket’ item for DCC (as across England) currently is funding reform, which is causing great concern among many, including DCC.  The concern focuses particularly on the phrase about how following a reset, funding will be sent ‘where it is needed most” and to areas of deprivation.  Devon is not widely regarded as being in that category.  Being a largely rural county with a low-cost economy and a significantly large elderly population on fixed incomes, we know that not to be the case.

On 28th November 2024, the Government issued a Local Government Finance Policy Statement, providing an update on local government funding following the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget in October stating that it is committed to funding reform.  A Fair Funding Review Consultation is expected to be published, alongside the

Provisional Settlement in December.  The Government intends to ‘reset’ the business rates retention system, as was originally intended when the system was introduced in 2013/14. A reset will further allow Government to match funding to where it is needed most. The reset will apply nationally.

The Government will consult and engage councils about reforms to the funding system, including an initial consultation on the objectives and principles of the government’s proposed approach, launching in December alongside the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement 2025/26. Government will consult on the technical detail of resetting the business rates retention system in early 2025.

Impact on the Authority’s 2025/26 Budget Setting

The actual impact on DCC funding will not be known until the Provisional Local Government Finance Settlement is announced, anticipated to be in the week commencing 16^th December as Parliament breaks up for Christmas recess. However, based on our finance officers’ best interpretation of the information currently available, coupled with uncertainty around council tax income projections, it is estimated that DCC could be worse off by approximately £13 million, possibly more and very bad news across all services.  As a consequence, and pending the provisional settlement, further work is underway across DCC to ensure a balanced budget can be set in February. 

Open consultation on enabling remote attendance and proxy voting at local authority meetings

This is one of those items, where the devil is likely to be in the detail.  The pandemic forced us all to work in different ways, and this applied very much to carrying out the functions of local government.  The Government is currently consulting on introducing powers for local authority members to apply to the relevant authority for a dispensation to attend formal council meetings remotely and vote by proxy in certain circumstances.  The aim is to support local government to modernise democratic engagement, raise standards and widen the range of candidates standing for council by removing unnecessary barriers.

It is with this in mind that the Government intends to amend the law to introduce provisions for remote attendance at local authority meetings.  The consultation seeks views on the detail and practical implications of this proposition to inform ongoing policy development.  Responses have been invited from local authority elected members, all types and tiers of authorities, and local authority sector representative organisations. My personal concern is that we have seen a significant tail-off in physical attendance by some elected members at council meetings since the lifting of restrictions, for no particular reason other than their convenience, and that any changes should be for the better with clear rules.  We otherwise run the risk of having people elected who rarely or never attend meetings, instead issuing a proxy vote. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

Communities urged to check grit bins

As we approach that time of year and have already had a dose of the ‘white stuff’, now is a good time to prepare in case of further. More than 3,500 grit bins are strategically placed by DCC for public use during severe weather. Towns and parishes are encouraged to check grit bins before the winter season starts, rather than during it. Once winter service starts, the amount of resource that can be diverted to filling grit bins is limited.

Grit bins are an expensive asset in terms of maintenance. Where new requests for grit bins are received, the preference initially will be to see if it is possible to re-site an existing bin if there is evidence to suggest it is not being used. Please liaise with your Neighbourhood Highways Officer who will be able to investigate if this is an option.  Where there are no options to re-site existing bins, and we are content a new bin is justified then this needs to be funded through the local councillor budget (where locality budgets are not available then funding may need to come directly from the Parish or Town Council). The cost remains at £350 which covers the installation, filling and ongoing maintenance costs for the life of the grit bin.

Forms to request salt and update contact details can be found at https://www.devon.gov.uk/devonhighways/self-help  Snow Wardens can request access to the online training by emailing . “

In his absence, Cllr Bruce said he noted the report on the news regarding the feedback from councils on housing numbers now before the Government. Anything stemming from this may have implications for our strategic plan nearing completion.

113/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Cllr Valentine said there was no update on this.  The clerk has emailed Cllr Valentine’s complaint to EDDC regarding the site allocation process and its flaws.  This will be circulated to other East Devon parish councils in the manner of a similar letter by Lympstone Parish Council.

ACTION: Clerk to distribute letter to all East Devon parish clerks.

114/24   To consider the following planning applications:

1. 21/2741/VAR – 1 Hamlet Cottages Weston EX14 3PB – Variation of Condition no.2 (approved plans) on planning permission 21/2741/VAR (Variation of conditio no.2 (approved plans) of application 21/1295/FUL (Demolition of existing workshop to be replaced with a new self-build dwelling) – modified design
2. 24/2200/FUL – 1 Hamlett Close, Gittisham EX14 3FR – Conversion of existing garage to living accommodation, with first floor extension over. Addition of external cladding.
3. 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
4. 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

Councillors resolved to have no objection to b, c and d.  Regarding a), councillors resolved to object to the application as previously agreed.  Granting permission would establish a new residential unit in the countryside without agricultural need being sought, and it will act as a precedent for other opportunities in the future which would be detrimental to the overall policy-making of EDDC. Parish councillors also raised concern about the proposed materials in terms of the roofing. 

115/24     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)
  • Councillors heard that Damian Furniss and David Fallows have met to discuss the way forward on an Openreach quote to take fibre to Town Farm Buildings.  Cllr Powell is working with them to draw up a number of questions they will submit to Openreach.  He has also spoken on the phone to Justin Lascelles regarding routes for fibre.  Justin is open to discussing different approaches to the village.  The parish council succeeded in getting some publicity in the press for the poor broadband issue, and local MP Richard Foord mentioned Gittisham in Parliament as illustrating the challenge facing some parts of his constituency in accessing superfast broadband. 
  • ACTION: Chair to contact Voneus to see if there was any possibility of increased coverage with additional infrastructure.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
  • 24/0539/LBC – 2 Riverside Cottages Gittisham Devon EX14 3AE Replace existing porch with enlarged lead flat roof porch on south elevation; replace existing extension on north elevation to create bedroom and bathroom and glazed canopy over rear door.  Approval.
  • Cllr Rowe added that the village hall committee would be putting in a planning application for the replacement windows and doors.

• To receive an update on Highways 

16 January – road to Catshayes Farm closed for installation of South West Water sewer level maintenance 0800-1700

09 Oct-23 December Sidmouth Road 100m uphill south of Tesco roundabout.  Temporary traffic signals. Guarding collapsed culvert causing water damage to road.

Until 10th December approximately: all roads in Gittisham Vale, installation of ducting for Virgin Cable.  A cabinet has been added by the grass at Old Elm Road turning circle.

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

Cllr Orchard said Honiton Town Council would be meeting mid-January to discuss projects.  Cllr Valentine added that a parishioner had suggested creating an area for sports where the old cricket pitch used to be in the village.

• To receive an update on public transport

Cllr Orchard said there was only one late running bus noted this month on the clipboard in the village bus shelter.  However, buses have not been serving the village over the past week due to engineers digging a hole in the road and attempting to find a suspected leak.

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

Cllr Rowe said the village hall committee was applying for grants towards the cost of replacing windows and doors, and separate funding for solar panels, insulation and replacement of lighting.

ACTION: Clerk to ask DALC if the parish council is able to apply for an interest-free loan to cover costs.  Grant aid is paid in arrears.

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said he would be discussing the changes to the proposals requested by English Heritage with Combe Estate next week.  Any redesign would need approval again from the community.  Housing associations are waiting to hear what the Government’s intentions are for their funding.  The result of that consultation won’t be known until March / April 2025.

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

Cllr Powell said Justin Lascelles had been interested to learn of the role DCC can take in establishing and maintaining new footpaths. 

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

Cllr Twist reported that RoSPA had carried out a safety inspection on the Hayne Farm play area.  The dog bins there have now been emptied.   

ACTION: Clerk to check that the wild area has been fully cut and the grass clippings taken away to promote wild flower growth.

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

Members discussed possible candidates for the lengthsman work but did not reach any conclusion.  Cllr Walker said the timbers at the base of the bus shelter are rotten and need to be replaced.  Cllr Valentine reported that the river in the village has nearly breached the overflow channels and these are therefore not fit for purpose.  It needs heavy equipment to remove the debris and could easily become a serious flooding event.  Cllr Rowe said the ditch at Truances is now high enough that when the water fills, it comes over the top and threatens the house.  It was agreed to add this to a future lengthsman’s list.

ACTION: Chair to contact Tom Buxton Smith at EDDC.

116/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was nothing to report this month.

117/24     To approve the December payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

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

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10377)

Laps Lawns £185, hedge trimming play area

Websites Ahoy, £221.50 migration, website maintenance & purchase of hosting for two years (inv. ref. W24-GPC-2)

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Cllr Rowe explained that Websites Ahoy would be migrating the parish council’s website to a different host provider (from 34SP to Krystal), which will be cheaper and emails should arrive quicker from everyone’s preferred email client.

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £24,228.89 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

118/24 To discuss future projects requiring parish council involvement

Members resolved to defer discussion to the next meeting, and particularly when setting the budget.

119/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

120/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Future projects; budget 2025-26; precept 2025-26.

121/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

After 20 years of service, Cllr Walker said she had decided to resign from the parish council.  She said it had been a privilege to serve the community, and a rewarding experience.  Councillors joined the Chair in thanking Cllr Walker for her commitment and enthusiasm over the past two decades on the council.

122/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 9th January and Thursday 6th February 2025 at 7.30pm.

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

Chair…………………………………….

9th January 2025

Held in Gittisham Village Hall

Present:

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

Vale ward: Cllr J Twist, Cllr A Powell

In attendance: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), 22 members of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

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

Before the start of the meeting, one member of the public complained about the amount of mud on the road.  They said DCC Highways teams had been out to try clearing some of it, but the poor state of the roads in general made this ineffective.  Cllr Rowe explained he’d met the new Neighbourhood Highways Officer who was keen to hear more about the issues affecting parishioners.  Cllr Rowe reminded people to use the ‘report a problem’ page on the DCC website or the app.

Other members of the public spoke about their disappointment and frustration following the announcement on 31^st October that Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) and Airband had agreed to scale back Airband’s contract agreements to deliver full fibre to properties in the region.  This means that Gittisham will not be included in the areas remaining under Airband’s modified contract.  It’s the fourth time in more than ten years the village has been let down by providers promising to bring superfast broadband to the parish.  Many people outlined the difficulties they have working from home with a very poor broadband connection, even for those who have Voneus wifi which is unreliable and for technical reasons cannot serve some properties in the village.  Others complained that online video appointments including for medical conditions were unworkable.  Many residents have weak mobile ‘phone coverage, which makes using 4G impossible.  Several teenagers explained how, during the years of the Covid-19 pandemic, having slow broadband had left them particularly disadvantaged as they could not always participate in online lessons. One person expressed concern that the copper connection to businesses would be switched off first, which would have a huge impact on his business.

Cllr Powell explained what the parish council had been doing to highlight the issue, including involving the local MP, writing to the relevant government minister and getting some press coverage.  Cllr Twiss added that over seven years campaigning for better broadband in the parish, he had never felt more despondent about the situation.  Enough is enough, he said.

87/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

88/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 3rd October 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 3rd October 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

89/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

August 2024:

Hamlett Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Nether Close – 1 x anti-social behaviour

Hedge Field Close – 3 anti-social behaviour, 4 x violence and sexual offences

Cypress Close – 1 x violence and sexual offences

Laburnum Close – 1 x other theft

Rowan Close – 1 x vehicle crime

September 2024:

Hedge Field Close – 3 anti-social behaviour, 1 x violence and sexual offences

90/24        To receive declarations of interest

Cllr Rowe declared an interest in agenda item 15 / minute ref. 101/24, as he is on the village fete committee.

91/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

None.

92/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

Broadband – Gittisham

Cllr Twiss said Gittisham is losing out yet in the delivery of high-speed broadband yet again, which is incredibly frustrating following many years of lobbying for Gittisham to be treated equally with other communities and a number of false dawns.  Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) and Airband (contracted to deliver full fibre broadband) have agreed to significantly scale back Airband’s contract agreements to deliver full fibre to properties in the two counties.

Both CDS and Airband remain committed to finding possible alternative delivery solutions for those communities who were due to receive fibre broadband.  CDS contracted with broadband supplier Airband, initially in 2016 to deliver fixed wireless infrastructure and additionally in late 2020 to roll out fibre broadband networks to communities across Devon and Somerset, with four contracts originally due to conclude at the end of 2024.  In total, Airband is contracted to deliver 55,493 premises. To date the operator has delivered 18,794 premises in collaboration with CDS.  However, following Airband’s restructure earlier this year, the company is seeking to maximise take-up across its existing network while slowing down on build activity which means it can no longer complete its contracted build for CDS in full and the company sought a change to its contract.

Cllr Twiss said he, along with many others, was extremely disappointed to see a reduction in coverage by Airband via the CDS contract, which directly impacts Gittisham. CDS is also discussing alternative options with Building Digital UK (BDUK), the Government’s national agency, responsible for the delivery of Gigabit Broadband.  CDS is urging BDUK to re-enable rural voucher applications to open promptly in communities where Airband will no longer be delivering. This should offer communities a potential alternative. At the same time CDS is seeking confirmation of the Devon and Somerset premises that will be connected under the nationally-led contracts awarded to Openreach as part of the Government’s Project Gigabit programme.

Devon colleges and council collaborate to enhance SEND education

Colleges in Devon are working with DCC to provide more places specifically to support the further education of hundreds of young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).  At least 350 additional post-16 education places for young people with SEND will be created at Exeter College and PETROC College’s two campuses in Barnstaple and Tiverton, thanks to a multi-million pound bid to the Department for Education (DfE) and Devon County Council.

The plans involve creating new on-campus facilities at the three sites, Exeter, Barnstaple and Tiverton, with dedicated, purpose-built spaces designed to meet the requirements of young people with a range of additional needs. The courses that the colleges will offer are currently under review and will be confirmed shortly.  The funding from the DfE is essential in providing quality further education, local to families in Devon, that will help young people achieve better educational outcomes, leading to improved employment prospects and independent living.  The colleges are also developing a wide-ranging programme of support for young people with SEND, beginning even before students attend to help make the transitions from school or other educational settings to the colleges as positive as possible.

Devon prepared for winter

Whatever the weather, Devon’s highway teams are prepared and ready to keep the county moving this winter.

Last winter’s biggest issue was the prolonged wet spell which caused extensive damage to Devon’s highway network. This led to a 31 per cent increase in pothole repairs between January and April, compared to 2023, and 94 per cent more than the same period in 2022.  However, in terms of dealing with icy conditions, last winter was relatively quiet, with Devon County Council’s gritting teams only using around 6,200 tonnes of salt, which was less than half the amount used the previous winter.  But more time was spent cleaning gullies and clearing debris from roads due to torrential rain and several named storms.  This highlights that Devon’s highway teams have to be prepared for all eventualities over the next few months where a generally dry winter would be preferable!

The Morocco – UK Power Project

Positive and exciting news about renewable electricity generation that positively affects Devon. The Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project will be a new electricity generation facility entirely powered by solar and wind energy combined with a battery storage facility. Located in Morocco’s renewable energy-rich region of Guelmim Oued Noun, it will be connected exclusively to Great Britain via 4,000kms (2,485 miles) of high voltage direct current (HVDC) sub-sea cables.  This first of a kind project will generate 11.5GW of zero carbon electricity from the sun and wind to deliver 3.6GW of reliable energy for an average of 19+ hours a day.  This is enough to provide affordable, clean power to the equivalent of more than 7 million British homes and once complete, the project will be capable of supplying 8 per cent of Great Britain’s electricity needs.  Alongside the consistent output from its solar panels and wind turbines, an onsite 22.5GWh/5GW battery facility will provide sufficient storage to reliably deliver each and every day, a dedicated, near-constant source of flexible and predictable clean energy for Britain, designed to complement the renewable energy already generated across the UK.

When domestic renewable energy generation in the United Kingdom drops due to low winds and short periods of sun, the project will harvest the benefits of long hours of sun in Morocco alongside the consistency of its convection trade winds, to provide a firm but flexible source of zero-carbon electricity.  Four cables, each 4,000km long, form the twin 1.8GW HVDC sub-sea cable systems that will follow the shallow water route from the Moroccan site to a grid location in Great Britain, passing Spain, Portugal, and France.  Agreement has been reached with National Grid for two 1.8GW connections in Devon. Voltage source convertor stations will enable the Xlinks project to secure high-value balancing contracts with National Grid, and a HVDC technical feasibility study has been completed to validate reliability and cost.

In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “At the last full district council meeting, a motion was carried with only one abstention to direct the leader to write to the Chancellor, asking her to reverse her decision on the winter fuel allowance. It is unlikely to have any effect, but I note with interest that unions, among others, are setting up to challenge the government over its scrapping of the winter fuel allowance. This has particular resonance here in east Devon, given our demographics. In my opinion this is a soft target for the government and has baffled many in Westminster. And I hope there is now a momentum to steer this government away from this step.

“I have raised my concerns with planning regarding Roebuck Farm. I have made it clear that the gate has been blocked for many years despite the farm’s claims that the entrance has been in constant use. I have sent the officer captured images from Google Earth showing the overgrown entrance.

“Talking of planning, I fully support the Parish Council looking into mounting a legal challenge regarding the ad hoc process employed by EDDC’s Strategic Planning when it came to site selection for the Local Plan. I will be encouraging my other councils to consider the same course of action.”

93/24      To receive an update on superfast broadband from Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS)

Phil Roberts (CDS Programme Manager) and Matt Barrow (Stakeholder Engagement Officer) said it was a humbling experience to hear the challenges people face first hand.  They explained the historic and complex failure of the four cancelled contracts to bring superfast broadband to Gittisham village, dating back over more than ten years.  They then put forward the possible scenarios to remedy the situation, acknowledging that none were likely to be delivered quickly.  There are voucher initiatives which involve working with providers to find a solution, but finding a provider to take this on could be a challenge.  There is also central Government’s Project Gigabit, a £5 billion programme to enable hard-to-reach communities to access superfast gigabit-capable broadband.  Building Digital UK (BDUK) is launching phased contracts to deliver this, but none include East Devon at this point.  This could change as BDUK continues its market research.

Graham Long (rural broadband campaigner) advised the public to make more noise about the issue than they had done previously, as it was unacceptable for residents to be left with a service that he described as belonging to the last century.  Cllr Twiss advised the parish council to pursue other avenues without any intervention from CDS, and said he was investigating and would report back.

Cllr Twiss and 18 members of the public left the meeting.

94/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant

Cllr Valentine said he’d attended the Strategic Planning Committee meeting on 29th October, where he had addressed those present on potential site allocations in the Honiton and Axminster areas (including Gittisham).  He outlined the parish council’s opposition to the inclusion of two sites in the Local Plan, with a further 310 dwellings proposed west of Hayne Lane towards the Forge.  He explained that this is not a sustainable site for residential development and is contrary to EDDC’s own sustainability objectives.  He declared himself very frustrated by the process, which he felt was undemocratic in many ways and he anticipated could be open to legal challenge. However, EDDC’s officers’ recommendation to allocate both sites in the Local Plan was approved by a majority of 8 to 3.  The final consultation plan is due to be published before the end of 2024 with an examination in public in 2025.

Members discussed the letter circulated by Lympstone Parish Council, which also discussed the site allocation process and its flaws.

ACTION: Chair and Cllr Valentine to discuss drafting a similar letter with Cllr Bruce that can be distributed to all East Devon parish councils.

95/24     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)
  • Cf minute ref. 93/24.  The Chair thanked Cllr Powell for arranging the meeting and driving the issue forward.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
  • 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.  Withdrawn.

• To receive an update on Highways 

16 January – road to Catshayes Farm closed for Detectronic ‘essential maintenance’ 0800-1700

09 Oct-23 December Sidmouth Road 100m uphill south of Tesco roundabout.  Temporary traffic signals. Guarding collapsed culvert causing water damage to road, although they got a last minute overriding order for full closure 31 Oct/01 Nov for emergency drainage works, so anything may happen.

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

In his absence, Cllr Orchard sent the following report: “I attended a recent Honiton Town Council S106/CIL meeting.  They are proposing to use the money on three projects: levelling and drainage of football pitches (local MP has recently visited), improvements and drainage to rugby pitches, and realignment of primary school/HCC sports pitches to increase pitches and space.  All would be available for public use, and the latter would also allow hockey netball etc outside school hours. They must put bids to EDDC S106 team, who then pass it on to another level, who then pass it on to another level for final decision around March 2025.  GPC got two rounds of applause during the meeting.”

• To receive an update on public transport

09-22 Nov.  Railway line closure Honiton to Axminster for engineering works.  A bus replacement service will run instead.

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

Cllr Rowe said there was no update on this. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine said the changes to the proposals requested by English Heritage would put further pressure on GCLT funds.  He will be approaching the board in due course.

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

Cllr Powell said there was no update on this.

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

The Chair reported that the tower slide plastic window had been replaced, and Andrew Lapping has done some hedge cutting in the wild area..

ACTION: Clerk to request invoice from Andrew Lapping.   

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

Members discussed the need for a one-off job by a contractor to clear ditches and drains which are becoming blocked with fallen leaves.

ACTION: Clerk to cancel public liability insurance for the lengthsman.

ACTION: Chair to draw up a list of what needs to be done, following a walkabout with Cllr Walker and Len Abbott.

96/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was nothing to report this month.

97/24     To approve the November payments and to note the current bank balance

Members resolved to approve the following payments:

F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for agendas, minutes & September meeting @0.45p / mile) resolved following discussion minute ref. 98/24

F Clampin £98.54 backdated payment under new pay scale 2024-25 resolved following discussion minute ref. 98/24

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10368)

RhinoPlay, £166.80 Bubble Perspex safety window for tower slide

Community Heartbeat Trust £324 annual support costs for Gittisham Vale & Gittisham telephone box defibs

NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £24,783.85 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

98/24 To consider a review of remuneration of the parish clerk in line with the annual NALC salary scales, and associated pension payments

Members resolved to raise the clerk’s salary in line with NALC recommendations to £14.36 / hr, for the year 2024-25 (along with associated pension payments), and to apply the increase retrospectively. 

99/24 To review the parish council’s online banking arrangements and update the banking mandate as appropriate

Members resolved to remove Cllr Valentine’s name from the mandate and add Cllr Rowe’s. 

ACTION: Cllr Twist to investigate other banks.

ACTION: Chair, Cllr Twist and clerk to visit Nat West to request address details are updated to enable online banking to proceed.

100/24 To discuss future projects requiring parish council involvement

Members resolved to defer discussion to the next meeting, and particularly when setting the budget.

Cllr Rowe left the meeting.

101/24 To consider financial support for the 2025 Gittisham village fete

Members resolved to defer discussion to the next meeting, and particularly when setting the budget.

Cllr Rowe returned to the meeting.

102/24 To consider Combe Estate’s 10 year Woodland Management Plan for 2025-2035

The Chair commented that mitigation in the upper catchment to prevent runoff is something that many groups are considering and would be particularly relevant, given the flooding the parish is experiencing (eg Iron Bridge)

ACTION: Clerk to ask Combe Estate for a map to accompany the woodland management plan, as well as the Combe Estate masterplan.

103/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

104/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

Future projects; lengthsman; banking.

105/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

The clerk said some Hayne Farm residents had complained about the siting of dog waste bins, as well as the smell from them not being emptied.  Members agreed the siting had been laid out in the original masterplan, overseen by Sovereign. 

ACTION: Clerk to contact Mark Sexton at Baker Estates to ask when emptying will happen, and request another walkabout.

ACTION: Cllr Rowe to contact Clare Bryden at Websites Ahoy about the slow arrival of emails.

106/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 5th December 2024 and Thursday 9th January 2025

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2135 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

5th December 2024

Held in Gittisham Parish Room

Present:

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

Vale ward:

In attendance: Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), one member of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)

Apologies for absence: Cllr J Twist, Cllr M Walker, Cllr Adam Powell, Cllr P Orchard PCSO Darren England

71/24 To accept and approve apologies

Apologies were received and accepted.

72/24        To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 5th September 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on 5th September 2024 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.  

73/24        To receive the Beat Manager’s Report

July 2024:

Nether Close – 1 anti-social behaviour, 1 x criminal damage & arson

Putts Corner – 1 x other theft

Beech Walk – 1 x public order

Nags Head Road – 1 x violence & sexual offences

74/24        To receive declarations of interest

None.

75/24        To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda

The Chair said she had suggested to Baker Estates that the company could send her a ‘no dogs’ sign for the Hayne Farm play area, and the parish council can install it.

The Clerk reported that she had received a response from the agent regarding planning application 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.  Part of the track used to access the proposed development is in Gittisham parish.   

The agent argued that the track has been used historically for farm vehicles and milk lorries that accessed the farm multiple times a day, this being a high volume of traffic accessing and egressing this entrance.  He said their clients have at this stage re-established the entrance (that has always been in place) and re-stoned the existing stone drive like-for-like. The use of the access drive does not need to be established at this stage as it is existing, he argued.

However this view was disputed by Cllr Rowe, who said the entrance to the drive has been overgrown for quite some time.

ACTION: Clerk to forward agent’s reply to Cllr Bruce.

76/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives

Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority

A combined county authority has been given the green light by the new government.  A decision by the previous government to establish the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (CCA) was deferred in June because of the July General Election.

Establishing the CCA is legally required to assume responsibility for new funds and powers transferred by Government from Whitehall to Devon and Torbay. The CCA will deliver the devolution deal, with a whole raft of powers, responsibilities, and funding devolved to Devon and Torbay from Whitehall. This will enable important decisions to be made locally on local priorities such as jobs and skills, housing and the environment.

With potential for the range of devolved powers to expand, the current proposals would see the new body having direct control of adult education to create up to 50,000 new training and retraining opportunities by 2030.

The Government has confirmed the transfer of £16 million capital funding to invest in new green jobs, homes, skills, and business growth and accelerate Devon and Torbay’s transition to a net-zero economy, capitalising on the area’s world-leading expertise in green science and technology.

The Government is offering a stronger partnership with Homes England, capitalising on the Affordable Housing Programme and Brownfield Infrastructure and Land Fund to create a joint action plan for affordable housing schemes for local people and reduce homelessness. The proposal includes additional land assembly and compulsory purchase powers, and would facilitate greater Community Land Trust-led delivery.

Are you eligible for Pension Credit and not receiving it?

The Government is encouraging pensioners to check if they qualify for pension credit and if so, to apply for it in order to receive the winter fuel payment.  If you get Pension Credit, you can also get other help, including:

•  Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in
•  Winter Fuel Payment
•  Support for mortgage interest if you own the property you live in
•  a Council Tax discount
•  a free TV licence if you’re aged 75 years old or over
•  help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments, if you get a certain type of Pension Credit
•  help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme
•  a discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house

Pension Credit tops up your weekly income to £218.15 if you are single; or your joint weekly income to £332.95 if you have a partner.  You could get additional benefits depending on your circumstances.  You can apply for Pension Credit up to four months before you reach State Pension age. You can apply any time after you reach State Pension age but your application can only be backdated by three months.

The government’s new pension credit awareness drive will help identify households not claiming the benefit, and encourage them to apply by 21 December. That is the final date for making a backdated claim for pension credit, in order to receive the winter fuel payment.  You can apply online, over the telephone, or by post.

Currently, only 63 per cent of people nationwide who are eligible for Pension Credit are receiving it. That is nearly four in every 10 pensioners who are entitled to Pension Credit, because of their low income, are not claiming it.  To find out if you are eligible for Pension Credit, visit the Government’s website at https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit

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

Key Stage 2 test results better than national average

New figures published by the Department for Education show that many Devon pupils with additional needs who sat their Key Stage 2 (KS2) tests this summer have performed better than the national average.  Results for this summer’s KS2 pupils in Devon with special educational needs (SEN) who are receiving additional support in the classroom show an improvement on last year’s results (2022/23) in science, grammar, punctuation and spelling, maths and reading. 

Fifty-eight per cent of Devon pupils with SEN, who are receiving additional support, were assessed as having met the standard expected of all KS2 pupils for science, compared to a national average of 54 per cent.  Fifty-two per cent of pupils in Devon with SEN support met the expected standard in reading, compared to 48 per cent national average.  Many pupils with Educational Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) also performed better than the national average.  The tests, known as SATs, alongside teacher assessments, are to make sure that individual pupils have the support they need as they move into secondary school.

And finally…!

Recent torrential rain, high winds and flooding made it a busy time for Devon County Council’s Highways teams clearing up across the county, which takes teams away from repairing and keeping highways in good order. It is a growing issue because our weather is changing with wetter and wetter winters and rain becoming much more intense, making it a constant challenge to keep ahead of issues before they arise.  At the last meeting of Devon County Council there were some very positive statistics presented on how extra money put in to the budget for this financial year has been used, with a few key headlines below:

•  An increase of 51 per cent in the number of emergency potholes we have repaired in the first four months of this financial year compared to the same period in 2023.
•  In the past four months, DCC Highways has already completed 80 per cent of the patching repairs that we were able to achieve in the whole of the last financial year.
•  Patching repairs target sections of road, which are deteriorating, laying patches over extensive areas before potholes or other defects form.
•  Since April, we have patched more than 18,000 square metres of road in more than 350 locations across the county.
•  Extensive work is being carried out on all categories of roads right across the county and, while we will not be able to get to every road in need of repair, we are ensuring our extra investment goes as far as possible.

These are very pleasing results, but there is still far more to do with a road maintenance backlog of around £200 million across our county, combined with occasional, damaging freezing conditions and an unprecedented number of violent storms, resulting in the worst possible combination for road surfaces.  We are also working with town and parish councils to share information and gather local intelligence so we can respond more effectively.

Cllr Twiss reported that DCC’s new Neighbourhood Highways Officer for the area is hoping to meet representatives of Gittisham, Feniton and Buckerell parish councils jointly every few months to discuss highways.

He added there was no update regarding broadband, despite a decision on Airband’s contract promised at the end of September.

Cllr Bruce reported that EDDC’s strategic planning committee meetings grind ever onwards toward setting out potential land for development. It is by no means a perfect system for any of our communities, he said, having seen for himself in South East Kent, where today rampant development has/is destroying the very environment people chose to move in to. Where there were three towns, there will shortly be one massive blob of housing with no definition between the former towns. This is, for him, an horrific example of runaway house building and how bad it can get. Cllr Bruce said although we are not facing the same scenario, given the huge pressure government are putting on councils to come up with mandatory housing numbers, we must resist where we can ending up in the same situation.

It’s not helped by the selection system EDDC has adopted, said Cllr Bruce. For example, when site selections are being made, the committee has two choices. Either they adopt a site or move on, but not to refuse one. This leaves the process open ended, allowing the committee to return and review sites if they end up with a shortfall in potential housing numbers. The result is no certainty to communities as to what may happen in the future and is fundamentally unacceptable. This method completely moves away from community driven development where local needs are paramount. Sadly we are now being forced into a numbers game to fulfil a manifesto pledge.

South West Water’s woeful performance remains a top local story. Despite a number of meetings with council representatives, there appears to be little hope of the situation improving any time soon. In Cllr Bruce’s view, the adoption of the carrot formula is not working with this utility company. He would advocate the stick approach, especially as shareholders apparently don’t like adverse publicity. It should be a national shame that our waters are more polluted now than twenty years ago.

The confusion over who is responsible for repairing the railings on Riverside Bridge have now hopefully been resolved with Devon Council undertaking the works. He said hopefully because there is still time for them to turn round and negate responsibility, leaving us back looking for who is!  In the same vein, the silting in the stream is also being looked at as to who is responsible.

Finally, if you get a chance to step out an hour after sunset around the 12th of this month, you may get to see our latest celestial wanderer, comet 2023-A3. The proper name is difficult to pronounce so he suggested sticking to Atlas. Look to the east low in the sky. If it does put on a show, Cllr Bruce said the media will be all over it.

The Chair said that EDDC Contractors have cleared silt at the Riverside bridge but did not carry out any work at the village bridge. The flood bypass culvert at the village bridge is now partially blocked by silt at the downstream outfall and is therefore increasing flood risk. The build-up of silt and vegetation on the right bank just upstream of the village bridge is getting close to blocking the surface water drain outlets. There is also work needed to regrade the bed at Crabbs Cottage, right bank where scour has caused the floodwall foundations to be exposed.

ACTION: Chair to contact Tom Buxton-Smith at EDDC regarding the above.

The Chair referred to a letter from Honiton RFC, whose members are looking for new places to train as the current pitches are over-used.  The club had approached EDDC about land it owns on the corner of Hayne Lane.  However, the Chair said this site has been earmarked as employment land in the Local Plan for some time. 

ACTION: Chair to contact Honiton RFC and refer them to the EDDC Local Plan.

77/24   To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan

Cllr Valentine said he had attended EDDC’s Strategic Planning Committee on 20^th September, where he had addressed those present on potential site allocations in the Honiton and Axminster areas (including Gittisham).   However, due to some last minute changes by EDDC with the allocation numbers, he was prevented from commenting on HONI_15.  Cllr Valentine said he was utterly dismayed by an apparent lack of organisation, and a culture of giving free rein to elected members with their own local agendas.  Members heard that a decision had been deferred to a later date, but the committee agreed to consider the entirety of the land earmarked between Hayne Lane and Sidmouth Road at the next stage.  This site may or may not be discussed at the Strategic Planning Committee meeting on 23^rd October.  Cllr Valentine said he was unavailable to represent GPC on that particular date, so the Chair assured him someone would represent the parish council and read out a prepared statement.  The clerk said she would be working abroad and advised members to check the date for registering attendance and to do so themselves if necessary.

Cllr Valentine advised members to consider appointing a consultant at a later date to present any arguments required to the examination in public. 

ACTION: Cllr Valentine to prepare a statement.

 Cllrs Bruce and Twiss left the meeting.

78/24   To consider the following planning applications:

1. 24/1683/FUL – Combe Garden Centre Hayne Lane Gittisham EX14 3PD – Proposed extension to existing building to form dry store area to kitchen and new toilets with new orangery to café

Councillors resolved to have no objection to the application. 

79/24     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)
  • In his absence, Cllr Powell notified members that Phil Roberts (CDS Programme Manager) and Matt Barrow (Stakeholder Engagement Officer) will attend the parish council meeting on Thursday 7th November in the village hall to discuss the provision of fibre broadband to the village and surrounds.
  • ACTION: Clerk to check if Phil Roberts and Matt Barrow have any specific requirements.
  • ACTION: Chair to speak to Cllr Powell about inviting other companies to the meeting.  Chair to publicise this meeting.
• To note the latest planning decision notices
  • 24/1504/FUL ­- 6 Honeysuckle Drive Honiton EX14 2YL Proposed single storey rear extension.  Approval.

• To receive an update on Highways 

22-24 Oct. A30 Daisymount to Langford Honiton.  Overnight closure for roadworks.

07-17 Oct. A35 Honiton to Axminster.  Overnight closure for carriageway works.

Members heard that a drain is blocked underneath the railway bridge by the Forge, and some residents have been clearing ditches.

ACTION: Clerk to email new NHO to say the drain outside the village hall needs jetting.

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

The clerk said EDDC had confirmed that the definition of “sports pitch” remained unchanged.  Members discussed what to do with the second tranche of S106 funds from Hayne Farm totalling £131,126.43.  In principle it was agreed to instruct EDDC to take back the majority of this, as GPC does not wish to spend it.  Members said they would be pleased if it was offered to projects that would benefit Gittisham residents, and agreed they would like to understand more about Honiton Town Council’s intentions.  Cllr Valentine reminded those present that the parish council may wish to retain some of the funds in case they could be spent on projects at Hayne Farm. 

ACTION: Clerk to contact EDDC to outline position.  Chair to write to Honiton TC.

• To receive an update on public transport

09-22 Nov.  Railway line closure Honiton to Axminster for engineering works.  A bus replacement service will run instead.

The Chair explained that when trains are not running, the 08:07am Stagecoach bus takes additional passengers before reaching Gittisham and refuses to take passengers, including King’s School students, from the village.

ACTION: Clerk to alert Cllr Orchard to ask about Stagecoach contingency planning.

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

Cllr Rowe said there was no update on this. 

• To consider limited residential development in the parish

Cllr Valentine explained that a heritage consultant appointed by GCLT had met English Heritage, EDDC’s conservation officer and a planning officer on site.  This followed the English Heritage report submitted as a result of the planning application.  Cllr Valentine said some minor adjustments to the current proposal could potentially be incorporated.  He added that there may be news in the Government’s autumn statement about how far they are prepared to go to fund CLT developments.    

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

In his absence Cllr Powell said he had been in touch with Tom Green, RoW officer at DCC and Justin Lascelles, Combe Estate.  Cllr Rowe reported that a traffic-free amenity route was mentioned at EDDC’s Strategic Planning Committee meeting when the allocation was discussed. 

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

The Chair said she would remind Russell Hayman about cutting the hedge opposite Parkers.  Cllr Rowe reported that the tower slide needs a new plastic window, which he will measure. The Chair said she would check what other hedge cutting needs to be done inside the play area.

ACTION: Clerk to enquire with manufacturer about window.  Clerk to ask Michael Poll if trimming hedges falls within his remit.   

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

ACTION: Chair to contact Cllr Walker, to ask her to discuss with Len Abbott the areas of the parish which need continuing maintenance and draw up a map.

80/24     To receive a report from the Chair

The Chair said there was nothing to report this month.

81/24     To approve the October 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 & September meeting @0.45p / mile)

Michael Poll, play area grass cutting £65 (inv. ref. 10360)

Gittisham PCC, £37 July-September parish room hire

DALC £78 2 x Procurement Act training courses (Chair & Clerk) (inv. ref. 5962 & 6001)

NEST £26.78 (clerk’s pension)

Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £25,678.15 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account). 

82/24 To review the parish council’s online banking arrangements

Members heard there had been issues with online access, and agreed to discuss at the next meeting.

83/24 Clerk’s report

There was nothing to report.

84/24     For information only; items for the forward agenda

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

85/24     To consider any late entry correspondence

None.

86/24     Date of next two meetings  

Thursday 7th November (village hall) and Thursday 5th December 2024 at 7.30pm. 

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2100 hrs.

Chair…………………………………….

7th November 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 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