Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr G Pester, Cllr D Valentine
Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard
In attendance: one member of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Apologies for absence: Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr A Powell, Cllr A Rye, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), PCSO Darren England
73/25 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
74/25 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 4th September 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 4th September 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.
75/25 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
July 2025
Parsonage Lane: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Meadow Acre: 1 x criminal damage & arson
Hamlett Close: 1 x criminal damage & arson, 1 x violence & sexual offences
Hodges Close: 1 x criminal damage & arson, 1 x anti-social behaviour
76/25 To receive declarations of interest
None.
77/25 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
None.
78/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives, and to consider Local Government reorganisation
In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report:
“A little more information is beginning to appear as to how the government’s devolution is going to work at local level, but it’s still a tiny trickle of what we need. Whilst quite how the various responsibilities of our current district and county councils are to be divided up is yet to be agreed, we don’t have to look too far to see a potential version of our local government. Across the border in Somerset where the county is run by a unitary authority, there have been major changes in where certain responsibilities fall. Unfortunately many services we currently take for granted are either underfunded or terminated. I use this example to try and offer a heads up to where we might end up in east Devon.
“What is clear is that our town and parish councils will be asked to shoulder burdens and responsibilities that they do not currently have anything to do with. My concern is that they will not be given the tools and resources to fulfil this new role. It appears that this is what’s happened across the border. Even before this new world descends on us, there are rumblings that budget constraints are biting at EDDC. Despite the embarrassing debacle of our new public toilets I understand that even more of our public toilets are going to be earmarked for either closure or replacement with new pay-to-use versions.
“I have long made the case that free to use public toilets are a vital part of our offering for tourism and for our older population. Some years ago it was removed as a statutory responsibility of councils, so it’s often first on the chopping board of cuts. Given what’s coming down the line, I hope we see town councils step up and run these, perhaps in partnership with local businesses that benefit from the provision of these toilets to their customers. We shall see. There are, of course, many more important services currently supplied by our county and district councils, and where they will end up is still up in the air, as is how well they will be funded.
“I’m afraid this has not been a very cheery report as I remain deeply concerned at this seismic change to our local government, and how it will play out for all of us. I fear that changing the table ‘place settings’ will not result in any of us getting a better service, rather I see us all paying more rates for less service.”
Cllr Richard Jefferies sent a brief report on DCC activities which is available on request.
79/25 To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider any actions arising
Cllr Valentine reported that EDDC was in the process of making what it calls minor changes to the draft Local Plan, which may mean parish councils won’t have the possibility to comment when the plan goes out for consultation again. He explained that challenging the Local Plan could be problematic: if such a challenge was successful, it would mean that EDDC could not use the previous formula to calculate housing numbers and would have to adopt the new formula from the National Planning Policy Framework. EDDC would have to find sites for an additional 5,000 dwellings under this alternative formula. Charlie Hopkins as consultant is aware of what is happening and will report back in due course.
80/25 To consider the following planning applications:
81/25 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
The Chair said that the issue of wayleaves had come up once again, and the owner of Radio Fibre was looking at ways to minimise disruption. She added that she’d not had a reply as to whether those residents with Voneus were eligible to apply for a voucher.
ACTION: Clerk to request an update from Cllr Rowe.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
Cllr Orchard said the next meeting at Honiton TC is pencilled in for 17 November to evaluate bids from sports
groups. If HTC receives a large number of applications, it will have to go to public consultation again.
ACTION: Clerk to check with EDDC if S106 money can be donated to a particular organisation.
To receive an update on public transport
Cllr Orchard said there was no update this month. Members noted that the bus service went awry during the recent water leak in the village when the road had to be closed.
To consider updating the parish emergency plan
Several members said they had contacted Cllr Rowe to update him on the status of the grit bins.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
This was deferred to the next meeting.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
Cllr Valentine reported that EDDC’s Landscape Officer had presented a late submission to the planning application asking for the boundaries of the site to be changed. The Chair thanked Cllr Valentine for his persistence and wished him luck in the determination process.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
There was no update this month. The Chair said she had received an email from a resident asking if a footpath in the parish was possible.
ACTION: Clerk to respond to resident.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
The clerk said she had asked Michael Poll to quote for work to replace the post on the small gate, which is rotten.
To consider the scope of future lengthsman work
Cllr Valentine said he had contacted Cllr Powell to ask if the lengthsman would do some work on Dark Lane. Cllr Valentine will meet him on site so Fabian Trim can understand the issues. The Chair reported that some gullies outside Myrtle Cottage needed cleaning, and also outside the village hall. There are weeds to be cleared from the gullies outside Clyst Hayes.
82/25 To receive a report from the Chair
There was no report this month.
83/25 To approve the October payments and to note the current bank balance
Members resolved to approve the following payments:
Members resolved to approve the following payments:
F Clampin £275.29 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for minutes, agenda & September meeting @0.45p / mile)
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10451)
NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.98
Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £28,136.64 (which includes approximately £7,258 in the business reserve account).
84/25 To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
Members agreed possible candidates were:
Village bus shelter refurbishment
Cllr Pester’s interpretation board
Bench
Village noticeboard
ACTION: Clerk to contact EDDC about bench, Luton Sawmills about noticeboard, Ottery & Budleigh TCs about interpretation board, Michael Poll about bus shelter.
ACTION: Cllr Orchard to enquire with Taylor Signs at Heathpark about interpretation board
ACTION: Cllr Rowe to update members on his suggestion to Combe Estate to cut down the dead hawthorn on the edge of the village green.
Cllr Valentine explain that under the Local Government Act of 1972 a parish council has discretionary powers to award grants to local groups or organisation which may bring a direct benefit to the area for some or all of its inhabitants. This is known as S137. He said he would be making an application to GPC for a grant under those provisions for the Community Land Trust. Cllr Valentine suggested the parish council should make this provision more widely known. There are criteria to be eligible (these are found on the Gittisham website under the grant giving policy). The amount set is calculated per head of electoral roll, at £11.10 per head.
ACTION: Clerk to circulate advice from DALC regarding providing for a CLT under S137.
85/25 Clerk’s report
None.
86/25 For information only; items for the forward agenda
Cllr Pester provided an update about the welcome pack, the draft text of which he had previously circulated to members. The consensus is to amalgamate information for Gittisham Vale and village. Cllr Pester said Cllr Powell had agreed to send him information about the Vale, which Cllr Pester will then circulate to a friend for fact and spell checking. Cllr Pester will keep the file which can be updated as and when necessary.
87/25 To consider any late entry correspondence
None.
88/25 Date of next two meetings
Thursday 6th November 2025 and December tbc at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2055 hrs.
Village ward: Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr G Pester
Vale ward: Cllr A Rye, Cllr P Orchard, Cllr A Powell
In attendance: three members of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Before the start of the meeting, three members of the public exercised their right as parishioners to bring appropriate matters to the notice of the council.
The third member of the public said as a tenant farmer they had been given no information directly from the company interested in bringing fibre broadband to the parish. This is despite the fact any work would involve using the farmer’s land. Cllr Rowe said he had been in dialogue with the company and would pass this on.
One member of the public left the meeting.
Apologies for absence: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr D Valentine, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), PCSO Darren England
55/25 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
56/25 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 10th July 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 10th July 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Vice Chair.
57/25 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
May 2025
Hedge Field Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x criminal damage & arson
Hodges Close: 1 x anti-social behaviour
Hayne Lane: 1 x criminal damage & arson
June 2025
Hedge Field Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x public order
58/25 To receive declarations of interest
Cllr Rowe declared an interest in agenda item 14 (minute ref. 68/25) as he is on the village hall committee.
59/25 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
Cllr Rowe reported that the village fete had been a successful event, in spite of the poor weather. He thanked the parish council for its support.
60/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives, and to consider Local Government reorganisation
In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report:
“As the political wheels grind back into motion after our hot dry summer, we find a number of issues still working through various committee stages. Perhaps the most pressing is the final stages of the strategic local plan. As many will be aware, this plan has had a painful and torturous creation. Not without controversy, we seem to still be at a stage where new sites are being added without, in my view, the correct amount of scrutiny. I am assured that when the plan finally goes out for public consultation this will be properly planned and made as easy as possible for the public to participate, and for feedback to make a difference. Sadly previous examples of this important part of the process have not generated much confidence in me. However, perhaps lessons have been learned for this one. We will see.
“The announcement on September 3rd regarding the potential new town, provisionally named Marlcombe near Exeter airport, is interesting in that it’s not clear how this potential number of houses will impact on the emerging strategic plan. I have asked for clarification.
“Many will have seen the farce of our new toilet blocks in Honiton, Budleigh Salterton and Exmouth. You would imagine that scenes of firemen breaking down toilet doors to release unfortunate members of the public would generate some serious activity at EDDC, and so it seems to be the case. A number of meetings are now scheduled to sort out this mess and ask some searching questions of officers and the manufacturer. I argued at the time that this was a big mistake, and voted against the removal of the old blocks. I strongly felt that costings to show the continued maintenance of the old buildings set against the upfront cost of the new blocks were not clear enough, nor the loss of capacity. I also argued that the toilets should be free, and to charge was unfair on locals, and off putting to tourists. To see images of the new blocks with doors out of order and worse, people trapped inside is simply disgraceful.
“Finally, I was heartened to see a political leader standing up to the reality of Trump. I have sent an email to Sir Ed Davey to thank him for taking a stand on his invitation by the King to attend a dinner in honour of the president. Whilst I echo many of the sentiments mentioned by Sir Ed for refusing to attend in his press release, I’m almost as much concerned for the reputation of our King. I know protocol and diplomacy require certain things from him, I just feel for him being put in this situation.”
61/25 To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider any actions arising
In his absence, Cllr Valentine sent the following report:
“The latest information from EDDC advises that there has been a delay in submitting the draft Local Plan for examination due to it being found necessary to hold a further public consultation to address the presentation of the policies and plans for the new settlement/urban extension to the east of Exeter (south of the airport). This will be taking place later this year and may provide an opportunity to present again the GPC objections to the overall plan.
“I say, may, because there may be challenges to the procedures being followed by EDDC. EDDC seem to believe that they can also introduce changes to the content and text of the first round of public consultation as part of this second round of public consultation due to some of the concerns that emerged during that first round consultation. But at the same time, exclude any further public comment. I am sure that the various legal teams will sort this out !!!!!!!! Given the change in timetable the earliest that the Examination in Public can take place is late 2026.
“I have provided Charlie Hopkins with a detailed brief including the full text of the submitted GPC objections, together with the complaint correspondence with EDDC and asked him to address the following questions :
“There are many policies within the Draft Local Plan that should be supported and are not contentious. Most of the general public will only have issues with a policy which has a direct negative impact on their day to day lifestyles. GPC have supported the more general policies but given the negative consequences of the site allocations Gitti_03/04/05 and the history of raising objection to any development to the west of Hayne Lane, the GPC consider that it is expedient to continue to raise concern. Should this concern be regarded as a challenge to the “soundness” of the Local Plan? What are the dangers and possible consequences in challenging the “soundness” of the Local Plan? How robust are the GPC objections?
“Given the history of decision making by EDDC including:
the continuing allocation of the employment land (Gitti_03/04) to the north of the railway
the recent Hayne Farm residential development of 290 dwellings (despite GPC objection)
the change in officer recommendation at committee on 22nd October 2024
the agent “masterplan” together with the GPC objections,
what is the likelihood, following the Examination in Public, of any removal of the GITTI_03/04/05 allocations or partial deletions?
Are there any other options that the GPC should be considering at this stage in the Local Plan process?
“Should anyone like to see the full text of the briefing note to Charlie then please let me know and I will forward it on. Charlie will be responding in due course.
“Shortly after I issued the briefing note to Charlie a planning appeal decision in respect of an outline planning application for 86 dwellings at Feniton was received. This is a summary
Contrary to spatial strategy of current Local Plan
Contrary to adopted Neighbourhood Plan
Fails to meet Flood Risk requirements
Negative sustainability issues
Sewage treatment at capacity
Loss of Grade 2 agricultural land (BMVAL)
Impact on adjoining residential
Proximity to Listed Buildings
Biodiversity issues
However
Would contribute 86 new dwellings in accordance with Government’s objectives
Council unable to demonstrate 5 year housing land supply
Current Local Plan out of date
Lack of certainty regarding content of emerging Local Plan
Offer of 50% affordable dwellings
No substantive evidence regarding education health etc shortfalls
CIL requirements available to cover education, health etc shortfalls
Flood risk/sewage treatment to be mitigated by conditions
Other details to be subject of reserved matters
Would generate moderate economic benefits
The adverse impacts are those identified previously in respect of the spatial strategy, flood risk and drainage, and that limited harm relating to the loss of BMVAL, whilst the benefits are those set out above. For all of the reasons given, I find that the adverse impacts would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, having regard to paragraph 11(d)(ii) of the Framework. This outweighs the conflict I have found would be caused with the development plan. Result – APPEAL ALLOWED.
“Should anyone like to see the full decision notice then let me know. This decision to allow the appeal and the findings of the appeal inspector should be disturbing to all parish councils in East Devon and is an example of what would happen in the event of further delays in the draft Local Plan process. Should the current draft Local Plan be found “unsound” the delays that would arise would provide developers with a clear signal to submit their planning applications. The signals may already be on green as evidenced by this appeal decision. Any further delays would also result in a recalculation of dwellings to be allocated within the plan period and result in a 20% increase in dwelling numbers for EDDC with consequent problems of finding sufficient land. This is my interpretation of the current situation and Charlie will elaborate further shortly.”
62/25 To consider the following planning applications:
25/0012/TPO – Land opp Garlands, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – details tbc
25/1552/LBC – The Lodge Gittisham EX14 3AD – Remove existing asbestos roof slates and felt, and replace with new natural slate roof with new ‘bat safe’ roof membrane, including partially dismantling and rebuilding existing chimney stack to match existing
25/1551/FUL – The Lodge Gittisham EX14 3AD – Remove existing asbestos roof slates and felt, and replace with new natural slate roof with new ‘bat safe’ roof membrane, including partially dismantling and rebuilding existing chimney stack to match existing
25/1365/PVJ – Gittisham Farm Gittisham EX14 3AX – Prior approval for the installation of 152 solar PV panels on a pitched roof
Members noted a) and d) and had no objections to either b) or c).
63/25 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
Cllr Powell explained that he and Clls Rowe, Hall and Valentine had met the owner of Radio Fibre, a company interested in bringing full fibre broadband to areas not yet served. Members noted that the company had heard of the situation in Gittisham following the public meeting the parish council arranged with Connecting Devon & Somerset. A trial scheme of certain properties has been discussed, involving residents claiming a voucher to recoup the cost and a connection box would be installed behind those properties. The discussions are at a very early stage, and all agreed on previous experience it would be wise to be cautious at this stage. One member of the public explained that people applying for vouchers would have to be in properties not already signed up to Voneus.
ACTION: Cllr Rowe to ask Radio Fibre if they had worked with other Devon parishes to date.
To note the latest planning decision notices
25/0885/FUL Unit 3 Iron Bridge Industrial Estate Gittisham EX14 3AN – Proposed enlargement of existing commercial building to provide additional warehouse space. Approval with conditions, including working hours 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays, with no working on Sundays or Bank Holidays.
Cllr Orchard said a resident had been in touch regarding what they regarded as speeding down Sidmouth Road at the roundabout with Old Elm Road.
ACTION: Clerk to contact resident and suggest they write to DCC as the highways authority and record any footage on a dashcam if possible.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
Cllr Orchard said Honiton TC’s next working group meeting was pencilled in for 10th September. Cllr Pester said a resident had asked if a football pitch or cricket pitch could be considered in the village, though members agreed that the availability of land could be an issue. The clerk explained that should the parish council wish to access any S106 funds, there is £3,794.15 available for ‘open spaces’. This money is held by EDDC and must be applied for using the appropriate process and is subject to approval by EDDC. The parish council currently holds £6,493.32 of CIL money.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
Members discussed if any additional topsoil was required for the rewilded area off Old Elm Road, and Cllr Orchard agreed to take a look at the area behind Rowan Close where the matting has been installed.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
There was no update this month.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
The clerk said NHO Tom Cox from DCC had replied to her enquiry about installing some matting along the grass verge between Hayne Farm and the bridge close to the Otter Inn. He said “unfortunately a rough path surface would not be acceptable, as any works would need to conform to highway footway construction standards to ensure safety and durability. DCC would be unable to fund a footpath here but if the parish wished to take it forward on the above basis of highway footway construction, a Section 278 agreement could be considered, but it involves additional costs, including legal fees, safety audits, and the provision of a bond.”
Members agreed to ask DCC to include this project in future budget-setting.
ACTION: Clerk to contact Cllr Jefferies re the above.
ACTION: Cllr Powell to draw up an itemised list for the costs involved in the above.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
Cllr Rye agreed to carry out some limited pruning of trees in the wild area. The clerk presented some figures for adult outdoor fitness equipment, which start at several hundred pounds for a small single item. EDDC has advised that CIL money could cover this, combined with the S106 money as outlined in minute ref. 63/25 d).
ACTION: Clerk to ask Michael Poll for a quote for work to replace the post on the small gate, which is rotten.
To consider work to be carried out by the lengthsman to maintain ditches and drains in the parish
Members noted with pleasure that Fabian Trim had refurbished the boules court; he is considering adding another edge to the court. The clerk said she had investigated costs for a new bus shelter, although the design aspect may present an issue in the conservation area. Members agreed a rebuild would be more in keeping with the setting, the parish council’s re-use / repair stance and also more cost-effective.
64/25 To receive a report from the Chair
There was no report this month.
65/25 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 £14.82 / hr, for the year 2025-26 (along with associated pension payments), and to apply the increase retrospectively.
66/25 To approve the September payments and to note the current bank balance
Members resolved to approve the following payments:
F Clampin £275.29 clerk’s salary + £10.13 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 3 for minutes, agenda & July meeting @0.45p / mile)
Fiona Clampin backdated pay from April 2025 at new NALC rate £14.82 / hr – £44.98
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10443)
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10432
Fab Trim Landscaping 13 hrs lengthsman work @£20/hr & 2 hrs gully clearing @£60 / hr INV-000018 £380
Cllr C Hall, reimbursement for boules set £27.95
NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.98
Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £28,521.04 (which includes approximately £7,258 in the business reserve account).
67/25 To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
Cllr Powell said some residents of Hayne Farm had requested a book shelter for a book swap scheme; Cllr Orchard reminded members of the books and other items which built up during the pandemic in the Vale bus shelter. The clerk said she would communicate DALC’s response as to the ‘ideal’ amount of reserves, which would enable members to make a decision.
Cllr Rowe left the meeting. Cllr Powell took the chair.
68/25 To consider changing the location of future parish council meetings
Members agreed to keep the parish room location, having explored other options. Cllr Rye suggested a ramp for wheelchair access was necessary.
Cllr Rowe returned to the meeting.
69/25 Clerk’s report
The clerk said she had agreed to take on some additional work for Broadhembury PC as clerk.
70/25 For information only; items for the forward agenda
Cllr Pester said he would be circulating a draft text for the welcome pack.
71/25 To consider any late entry correspondence
Cllr Orchard said the telephone box in the village could do with a lick of paint. Cllr Rye agreed to arrange a working party and purchase the paint, which will be reimbursed.
72/25 Date of next two meetings
Thursday 2nd October and Thursday 6th November 2025 at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2100 hrs.
Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine (after agenda item 8f), Cllr G Pester
Vale ward: none present.
In attendance: one member of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Apologies for absence: Cllr A Rye, Cllr P Orchard, Cllr A Powell, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), PCSO Darren England
40/25 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
41/25 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 5th June 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 5th June 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.
42/25 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
April 2025
Cypress Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Nether Close: 2 x violence & sexual offences
Meadow Acre: 1 x criminal damage & arson, 1 x violence & sexual offences
43/25 To receive declarations of interest
Cllr Rowe declared an interest in agenda item 10 (minute ref. 49/25) as he is due to be reimbursed by the parish council.
44/25 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
Cllr Rowe explained that he had offered to help Cllr Rye set up her gittisham.org.uk email account.
Cllr Rowe said he would talk to Cllr Orchard about updating the emergency plan, especially regarding people named as emergency contacts.
45/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
Neither Cllr Bruce nor Cllr Jefferies sent reports in their absence.
ACTION: Clerk to ask Cllr Jefferies if he can find out whether or not DCC is able to improve mobile ‘phone coverage, or whether this is done by a consortium of network operators.
46/25 To consider the following planning applications:
25/0659/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – To take down existing wall to barns 1 and 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
25/0660/VAR – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Variation of Condition number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 20/0781/FUL (Conversion of barn to holiday let accommodation) proposal to take down existing wall to Barns 1 & 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
Councillors said it was not clear what changes had been made to the previous application.
ACTION: The Chair to report back to members on the changes.
47/25 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
There was no update this month.
To note the latest planning decision notices
23/1632/MOUT Coastguard Road Ltd Devonshire Road Heathpark Industrial Estate Honiton EX14 1SD – Outline application for Class E development within two sites (Phase 2A & 2B) to the west of Coastguard Road, Honiton (all matters reserved). Approval with conditions, including works M-F 0800-1800 and Sat 0900-1300 only.
25/0856/FUL 1 Church Mead Gittisham EX14 3AH – Replacement single storey side extension with associated internal alterations. Approval.
To receive an update on Highways
4–6 August road through Alfington closed for Wales and West Utilities work.
7 August 0700–1900 temporary one-way along old A30 adjacent to Honiton Agricultural Show.
Members noted that the Alfington road closure is scheduled to last until the end of August, not as indicated.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
Cllr Orchard sent the following report in his absence: “EDDC considered CIL applications and has awarded £601k CIL for Honiton area sports. Planning permission must now be secured by Youth football and Honiton Cricket Club 3G projects to draw down CIL/S106 from EDDC. Honiton Rugby Club drainage and floodlight works are in full progress. Honiton sports clubs to be asked to apply (to the Town Council) for that remaining S106 funding including Honiton based, to a deadline date around 15 August 2025, benefit also to Gittisham residents, and what match funding has been secured. Honiton S106 committee meet early September to assess further bid applications to take forward to EDDC.
The CIL application included £208k S106; EDDC now holds £345k S106 including 2x Hayne Lane development contributions in Gittisham and other smaller developments. £200k of S106 has been allocated to rugby club project. £177k remains available for wider projects (not only youth football and rugby) for sports pitches (ie not pavilions).”
To receive an update on public transport
There was no update this month.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
Cllr Rowe said he had asked Cllr Bruce to enquire after the officers he had been dealing with previously on rewilding.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
Cllr Valentine said EDDC’s planning officer was still awaiting a consultation response from the county ecologist. A decision is expected within the next week or so.
Regarding EDDC’s Local Plan, Cllr Valentine reported he had spoken to planning consultant Charlie Hopkins regarding representation at the Local Plan enquiry later this year (or early next year). His diary is busy in October, but otherwise he is happy to help. He is not representing any other PC or party in respect of the current EDDC Local Plan.
Members RESOLVED to approve £2,000 of expenditure for Mr Hopkins’s initial assessment. Cllr Valentine will prepare a summary of PC representations previously made, and give Mr Hopkins the opportunity to assess the likelihood of GPC being successful in making further representations at the public inquiry. Members can then consider whether or not to attend the Inquiry on behalf of GPC. Having Mr Hopkins’s assessment, Cllr Valentine argued, would provide a better basis on which to consider further expenditure over and above getting his professional assessment.
Members heard that Axminster TC is suggesting there were irregularities at EDDC’s Local Plan meetings, but Cllr Valentine cautioned that if the inspector finds the plan unsound, it could open a new can of worms.
ACTION: Clerk to enquire if EDDC has published the responses to its public consultation, or can make them available in some way. If not, clerk to ask DALC if it’s possible for GPC to submit a Freedom of Information request along similar lines.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
There was no update this month.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
Members discussed reviving the boules court, after a request from a resident and also having seen the new one in Tipton St John, and it was agreed to investigate how much it would cost to bring it back into use.
The Chair said she hoped to meet Michael Poll the following day when he is in the village to chat about the appropriate management of wildness for the wild area, following a comment from a resident about the height of grass and brambles around the tower slide before they were cut. Members felt that with the continued hot and dry weather, now might be a good time to cut the grass right back. Cllr Rowe said a resident had asked if adult fitness equipment could be installed in the play area, and the clerk agreed to investigate costs but warned they could be significant.
ACTION: Clerk to ask Fabian Trim for a quote for work on the boules court.
Clerk to purchase a new set of boules.
Clerk to investigate prices of adult outdoor fitness equipment, and to enquire if future CIL money would cover this.
Cllr Rowe to revisit the signage for the play area.
To consider work to be carried out by the lengthsman to maintain ditches and drains in the parish
The Chair said that Fabian Trim had carried out some work, including strimming the river so that it is ready for the duck race. He will be strimming the ditch by the village green, and they will be cleared once ground conditions permit. Cllr Rowe said he had purchased some cones and road signs for future lengthsman work. It was agreed that a list of items to see to should be drawn up in the coming months.
Coincidentally it emerged that some council highways contractors had visited to cut drainage splays which direct water from the road into ditches along Parsonage Lane and up to Bellevue and other areas around the village; also they have cleared the drainage holes into the river along the road towards Catshayes. Cllr Valentine commented that the village bus shelter was showing signs of wear and tear, and would need to be replaced at some point. It would be wise to draw up a list of the state of assets and factor this into future budget setting.
ACTION: Chair to ask Fabian Trim if he will consider attending emergencies.
Clerk to enquire re: Chapter 8 training.
Clerk to investigate a new bus shelter for the village.
48/25 To receive a report from the Chair
The Chair said she had received an email from Graham Braddick thanking the parish council for its support regarding the Roebuck Farm application and tree felling.
49/25 To approve the June 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 minutes, agenda, audit documents & June meeting @0.45p / mile)
F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary (August, as no meeting)
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10427)
Fab Trim Landscaping 4 hrs lengthsman work INV-000011 £80
DALC attendance of Cllr Rye at Being a Good Councillor, June inv. ref. 6762 £48
F Clampin, reimbursement for drain rods (once purchased) £33
NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08
NEST (clerk’s pension, August) £28.08
Cllr Rowe left the meeting.
Cllr A Rowe, reimbursement for cones & road signs £30.90
Gittisham Village Fete £500 upfront costs
Cllr Rowe returned to the meeting.
Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £23,464.74 (which includes approximately £7,258 in the business reserve account).
50/25 To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
Members noted that £2,000 would be spent on Charlie Hopkins’s initial planning assessment. The clerk advised that adult outdoor fitness equipment would come with a significant cost.
Cllr Pester said he was drawing up a welcome pack with useful information that could be given to every new resident; members discussed potential content and Cllr Pester agreed he would circulate a draft to members. Maggie Walker and Paul Wakley have agreed to write some text. The pack would be low-cost, and only printed as and when necessary. He mentioned that Budleigh TC had some good maps covered with fibreglass on a weatherproof board.
ACTION: Clerk to ask Budleigh TC who provided the maps / boards.
Clerk to ask DALC for a recommendation on an ideal amount of reserves.
51/25 Clerk’s report
Members thanked Pierre Graeber for repairing the parish council’s printer. The clerk agreed to enquire about using the side room at the village hall for meetings.
52/25 For information only; items for the forward agenda
Reducing GPC’s reserves; emergency plan.
53/25 To consider any late entry correspondence
None.
54/25 Date of next two meetings
Thursday 4th September and Thursday 2nd October 2025 at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2115 hrs.
Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine, Cllr G Pester
Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard, Cllr A Powell
In attendance: Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), three members of the public, Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Apologies for absence: Cllr A Rye, Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), PCSO Darren England
Before the start of the meeting, former parish councillor Maggie Walker thanked the council for the gift she had received upon her resignation. Ms Walker said she would continue to support the council’s activities.
One member of the public left the meeting.
20/25 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
21/25 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 8th May 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 8th May 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.
22/25 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
March 2025
Nags Head Road: 1 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x other crime
Nether Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Hamlett Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Meadow Acre: 1 x vehicle crime
23/25 To receive declarations of interest
The Chair and Cllr Valentine declared an interest in agenda item 7a) (minute ref. 26/25). Cllr Valentine is the applicant, the Chair is a Gittisham CLT shareholder.
24/25 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
Cllr Valentine said he would be happy to meet planning consultant Charlie Hopkins regarding EDDC’s Local Plan and potential representation at the EiP.
Cllr Powell said he had spoken to EDDC’s Planning Policy officer regarding the selection (or not) of brownfield sites in the Local Plan. There followed a discussion about changes to planning policy over the last two decades.
25/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
Cllr Bruce said many would be aware of the alleged illegal action taken by contractors for Greendale concerning the widening of the entrance to Roebuck Farm near Gittisham on 23rd May. The wholesale removal of a number of mature trees without planning permission, and within the bird breeding season has been reported to the wildlife officer at Devon and Cornwall Police. Given the seriousness of this action, Cllr Bruce said he is asking EDDC if there is anything that can be done to stop this type of destructive act being perpetrated in the future.
He understands from EDDC’s tree officer that, as the trees are now down and were not listed, there is little EDDC can do. He is also informed that the damage to the trees occurred outside the boundary of an application currently under review. Cllr Bruce said he was not sure this will have any bearing on the apparent breaking of the wildlife law, but he will be adding this information to his report to the police. Given the volume of emails and ‘phone messages he had received on this subject, he has requested that the district council leader writes to the police, as well as the Police & Crime Commissioner, to ensure this issue is not lost in the ether.
Cllr Bruce explained that the incident was discussed at Wednesday’s EDDC cabinet meeting, where cabinet members shared his concerns. Parish councillors discussed on what basis wildlife law would be applicable in this case. The Chair said she had been in touch with residents in the area and the chair of Awliscombe Parish Council, and spoken to EDDC’s enforcement officer.
ACTION: Clerk to get in touch with Devon & Cornwall Police to express concerns, and reply to residents and Awliscombe PC chair with a summary of what has been discussed at this meeting.
Members noted Cllr Bruce’s report that a motion is going to full council for removal of permits to allow East Devon hunting groups to muster in car parks.
Cllr Bruce, the Chair and Cllr Valentine left the meeting. Cllr Rowe took the Chair.
26/25 To consider the following planning applications:
24/0514/FUL – Land adjacent to Town House, Gittisham EX14 3AJ – Demolition of existing agricultural buildings. Proposed housing scheme for 6no. CLT owned affordable homes for rent, and 3no. Estate owned open market houses
Councillors noted that the amendments relate to extending the site to meet the biodiversity net gain requirements. Members resolved to have no objection to a) and expressed their support along the same lines as before.
The Chair and Cllr Valentine returned to the meeting.
b) 25/0885/FUL – Unit 3 Iron Bridge Industrial Estate EX14 3AN – Proposed enlargement of existing commercial building to provide additional warehouse space
c) 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application).
Councillors resolved to have no objection to b). Regarding c), members objected to this application which risks increasing vehicle movements in the surrounding area. In addition, they expressed concern and disappointment that the tree cutting had taken place outside the context of a planning application.
27/25 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
Cllr Powell said he would ask Cllr Jefferies to follow up on former Cllr Twiss’s enquiries with a supplier regarding superfast broadband. The clerk said she had responded to EDDC’s Rural Broadband Survey, and Cllr Rowe agreed to put a message on the village WhatsApp group encouraging people to respond before the deadline on Friday, June 6.
Two members of the public left the meeting.
To note the latest planning decision notices
24/1683/FUL Combe Garden Centre Gittisham EX14 3PD – Proposed extension to existing building to form dry store area to kitchen and new toilets with new orangery to cafe. Approval with conditions.
To receive an update on Highways
4–6 August road through Alfington closed for Wales and West Utilities work.
7 August 0700–1900 temporary one-way along old A30 adjacent to Honiton Agricultural Show.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
Cllr Orchard reported that EDDC have released £200k of S106 money to Honiton Rugby Club for improvements to floodlights and drainage. Work should start this month for completion by the forthcoming season. Part of this sum was a contribution from Baker Estates to Gittisham Parish. Strategic Planning Committee were due to meet a week later to make final decisions.
The Chair thanked Cllr Orchard for attending Honiton TC’s Sports Working Group meeting on 4th June. This follows EDDC’s CIL working party which recommended Honiton projects for CIL support on 19 May, totalling £601k. Honiton TC will write to all Honiton-based sports facilities and clubs asking for ideas. The next meeting will take place in September 2025, when decisions will be made on which ideas to fund. Cllr Orchard said he was satisfied that many of these S106- and CIL-funded projects would benefit Gittisham parishioners.
To receive an update on public transport
Cllr Orchard reported that South Western Railway transferred to public ownership on 25 May, joining Network Rail, LNER, Northern, South Eastern, and TransPennine in the Government’s train set.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
There was no update this month.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
Cllr Valentine said he expected a decision on the amended application following the extended deadline at the end of June.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
Councillors discussed issues such as liability with proposals to install matting on the grass verge from Devonshire Road towards the Otter Inn, with the aim of encouraging people to walk rather than drive. Members agreed a meeting with DCC’s local highways officer would be a good starting point to see if DCC would consider it.
ACTION: Clerk to arrange meeting with Tom Cox.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
Councillors discussed the appropriate management of wildness for the wild area, following a comment from a resident about the height of grass and brambles around the tower slide before they were cut. Cllr Powell suggested cutting it right back and see what flowers next spring. He added that Devon Wildlife Trust had approached him to offer a mini tree nursery, which could be planted in a corner of the play area.
ACTION: Clerk to arrange meeting between Michael Poll and Cllrs Powell, Pester and Rowe to discuss management of the area.
To consider work to be carried out by the lengthsman to maintain ditches and drains in the parish
Cllr Powell said he had been speaking to somebody who might be interested in taking on the lengthsman work. Cllr Valentine asked if the length of growth in the stream was a concern, but the Chair said she did not think it was.
ACTION: Cllr Powell to arrange a meeting between Len Abbott and the person who had expressed an interest to share knowledge of the parish.
28/25 To receive a report from the Chair
The Chair passed on a message from former councillor Janet Twist, who thanked the council for the gift she had received upon her resignation. On a separate note, the Chair said how disappointing it was to read an article how some other rural communities in Devon are predicting seven or eight years until they can be connected to superfast broadband. Members heard that some homes in nearby Talaton had been cut off from Voneus broadband, including the parish hall.
29/25 To approve the June 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 minutes & May meeting @0.45p / mile)
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £210 (inv. refs. 10408 & 10413)
Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £25,329.80 (which includes approximately £7,258 in the business reserve account).
30/25 To receive and note the annual internal audit report
Members noted the annual internal audit report carried out by Bluechip Payroll.
31/25 To approve the annual governance statement 2024-25
Members resolved to approve the annual governance statement 2024-25.
32/25 To approve the 2024-25 accounting statements
Members resolved to adopt the 2024-25 accounts. Prior to the meeting, the clerk circulated the accounting statements. The parish council ended the financial year on 31st March 2025 with a balance of £22,557.44 (inc. £7,257.61 in business reserve, with £100.73 interest accumulated this year). There is VAT to be recovered of £311.20.
33/25 To consider the criteria for meeting exemption from the annual limited assurance review 2024-25, and approve the exemption certificate
Members agreed the criteria had been met, ie that during the financial year 2024-25 the higher of the parish council’s gross income or gross annual expenditure for the year did not exceed £25,000.
34/25 To set and approve the period for the exercise of public rights 2024-25
Members approved the period for the exercise of public rights to extend from 9th June to 18th July 2025.
35/25 To consider proposals to reduce the balance of Gittisham Parish Council’s reserves
Members discussed proposals, including a bench at the west end of the balancing pond by Rowan Close. Residents in neighbouring properties will need to be informed. Members agreed a new noticeboard outside the village hall would be welcome. Another proposal featured a history trail through the village.
Cllr Pester said he had found the two courses he’d attended (DALC’s Being a Good Councillor) very informative, and he had spoken with councillors from other parishes about initiatives their councils were developing. Cllr Pester suggested adding a map to a revamped or replacement parish noticeboard, and he agreed to start drafting a welcome pack with useful information that could be given to every new resident. This would for newcomers to the village for now, with the potential to extend to the whole parish at a later date. This will be added to the agenda as a standing item.
36/25 Clerk’s report
None.
37/25 For information only; items for the forward agenda
Reducing GPC’s reserves.
38/25 To consider any late entry correspondence
Members noted correspondence from residents and Awliscombe Parish Council regarding Roebuck Farm.
39/25 Date of next two meetings
Thursday 10th July and Thursday 4th September 2025 at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2135 hrs.
Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine
Vale ward: Cllr A Powell, Cllr Andrea Rye
In attendance: Cllr Richard Jefferies (DCC), (member of the public), Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Apologies for absence: Cllr P Orchard, Cllr G Pester, Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England
1/25 To elect a Chair
Cllr Valentine nominated Cllr Hall for election as Chair for 2025/26. This nomination was seconded by Cllr Rowe. A roll call of members present at the meeting was then taken. It was then resolved by a unanimous decision that Cllr Hall be elected Chair for 2025/26 of Gittisham Parish Council.
2/25 To elect a Vice Chair
Cllr Hall nominated Cllr Rowe for election as Vice Chair for 2025/26. This nomination was seconded by Cllr Valentine. A roll call of members present at the meeting was then taken. It was then resolved by a unanimous decision that Cllr Rowe be elected Vice Chair for 2025/26 of Gittisham Parish Council.
3/25 To receive the Chair’s and Vice Chair’s Declaration of Acceptance of Office
In accordance with Section 83 of the Local Government Act 1972, Cllrs Hall & Rowe made a Declaration of Acceptance of Office.
4/25 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
5/25 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 17th April 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 17th April 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.
6/25 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
There has been no update on the police website since the last meeting.
7/25 To receive declarations of interest
None.
8/25 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
Cllr Valentine said the parish council had received some correspondence from Broadhembury PC explaining their objections to EDDC’s Local Plan. They challenged both the soundness of the plan and raised objections to what was being proposed. Members discussed the whys and wherefores of recruiting a planning consultant to represent Gittisham parish at the examination in public, which could be prohibitively expensive. Cllr Powell asked why there didn’t appear to be an invitation from EDDC to develop brownfield sites, as there is one for greenfield sites.
ACTION: Clerk to contact Charlie Hopkins who represented the parish council on a previous occasion. Clerk to send GPC’s objection and EDDC’s response to Cllr Jefferies.
ACTION: Cllr Powell to write to EDDC asking about an invitation for brownfield site development.
9/25 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
Cllr Jefferies introduced himself as the newly elected County Councillor for the electoral division of Feniton & Honiton. He has lived around Honiton for 20 years, has worked in construction and is a keen environmentalist. He has chaired the East Devon National Landscape Partnership. Members said they would very much like him to help progress the lack of superfast broadband in Gittisham village. Cllr Jefferies said EDDC would be sending out a survey about rural broadband across the district. All paid tribute to the work of Cllr Phil Twiss who fulfilled the role from May 2017 until the recent election, and his strong support for the parish.
In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “I was able to attend the raising of the Union Jack at Blackdown House today to pay respects on VE Day. It was gratifying to see so many in attendance, and share stories from veterans and relatives. I am always in constant awe at the bravery of all who helped keep us safe then and achieve our ultimate defeat of evil.
“At District level, although it’s been relatively quiet, the ramifications to local government still hang like an unanswered question. I’m assured that work behind the scenes is pressing forward to achieve the best outcome for our district. I still, however remain deeply concerned that the proposed changes to local planning will see many of the checks and balances that have protected our communities from savage development are about to be swept away in the pursuit of short term gains, with no regard to the cohesion of our parishes and villages.
“On a more positive note, it would be remiss of me not to mention the major changes to Devon County Council following the recent elections. I am pleased to congratulate Cllr Jefferies, our new representative, and very much look forward to working with him. I’d also like to put on record my sincere thanks to Cllr Twiss for the sterling service he has given to our ward. In the 15 years I have been involved in local politics, I have not come across a more hard-working councillor and one so dedicated to doing his very best for his electorate.”
10/25 To consider the following planning applications:
a) 25/0856/FUL – 1 Church Mead, Gittisham EX14 3AH – Replacement single storey side extension with associated internal alterations
b) 25/0369/FUL – Roebuck Farm Weston EX14 3PB – Proposed MOT station, hard-standing and widened access track (retrospective application).
Councillors resolved to have no objection to a). Regarding b), GPC was made aware in August last year by a parishioner of a previous application for change of use at Roebuck Farm. This application was subsequently withdrawn. Although Gittisham is the adjoining parish, part of the track which serves the proposed change of use is in Gittisham parish. Councillors expressed their disappointment that a change of use from farm entrance to MOT station appeared to have gone ahead, and objected to this application which risks increasing vehicle movements in the surrounding area.
11/25 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
Cllr Powell said he had spoken to somebody at Wildanet who specialise in rural broadband in the South West, and have been developing a network in Cornwall. The company said they would like to help but do not have the resources to do so.
To note the latest planning decision notices
24/2270/FUL Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate. Approval.
24/2271/LBC Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace windows on ground floor on south west, north east, north west and south east elevations. Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate. Approval.
25/0637/FUL 2 Ferndale Close Honiton EX14 2YN – Construction of two-storey side extension. Approval.
APP/U1105/W/24/3348938 Kings Arms Farm, Nags Head Road, Gittisham EX14 3AP – Proposed house of multiple occupation (HMO), that provides individual living-rooms for vulnerable people; the facility includes communal areas for socialising, cooking and dining set with private and secure gardens. Appeal dismissed.
To receive an update on Highways
4–6 August road through Alfington closed for Wales and West Utilities work.
The Chair said she had been corresponding with a parishioner who asked if additional action could be taken on potholes, especially on the road up to Beech Walk. Members heard it can be an onerous task to report so many potholes individually on DCC’s website, and the site does not allow high resolution photos. Cllr Rowe said he had suggested an alternative.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
EDDC have released £200k of S106 money to Honiton Rugby Club for improvements to floodlights and drainage. Work should start this month for completion by the forthcoming season. Part of this sum was a contribution from Baker Estates to Gittisham parish, which the parish council gifted to Honiton Town Council to spend on sports activities which would benefit Gittisham parishioners. The Chair asked if it would be possible for the rugby club to acknowledge Gittisham’s contribution in some way.
Cllr Rye enquired about the field on the corner of Hayne Lane and the link road, and whether the oak trees there could be protected. Cllr Valentine replied that the site has been earmarked for employment land. Cllr Jefferies advised Cllr Rye to look at EDDC’s tree and hedgerow strategy.
ACTION: Clerk to ask EDDC about its tree warden scheme and feed back to Cllr Rye.
To receive an update on public transport
Nothing to report this month.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
Cllr Rowe reported that the village hall will be running on self-generated green electricity throughout the summer months.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
Cllr Valentine said a bat survey was being carried out the evening of 8th May at the site.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
Cllr Powell said installing matting could be one solution to the grass verge from Hayne Farm towards the Otter Inn, and might encourage people to walk rather than drive.
Cllr Valentine left the meeting.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
Cllrs Powell, Rye and Orchard have attended to the items highlighted in the annual safety inspection report. Cllr Rye said some cherry trees could be trained along the back wall of the wild area by the bee hotel.
ACTION: Clerk to ask safety inspector for advice on signs for the play area.
To consider the scope of future lengthsman work and recruitment
The Chair urged all members to identify areas which needed work and bring them to the next meeting, if they could not be fixed by councillors themselves. The clerk said there was no update on lengthsman recruitment.
12/25 To receive a report from the Chair
The Chair said there was no update this month.
13/25 To consider and adopt the parish council’s standing orders
Members resolved to adopt the parish council’s standing orders.
14/25 To review the parish council’s fixed asset register
Members noted the fixed asset register.
ACTION: Clerk to add Greentech matting.
15/25 To approve the May payments and to note the current bank balance
Members resolved to approve the following payments:
F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £6.75 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 2 for minutes & April meeting @0.45p / mile)
F Clampin £108.97 reimbursement for vouchers & thank you cards for former councillors
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £140 (inv. refs. 10403 & 10400)
DALC 2 x cllr training courses (Cllr Pester) £36
Community First Trading annual insurance policy £473.26
NEST (clerk’s pension) £28.08
Members were informed that the current bank balance stands at £25,989.76 (which includes approximately £7,000 in the business reserve account).
ACTION: Clerk to investigate purchase of a new noticeboard for outside the village hall, including contacting the sawmills in Luton, near Payhembury.
16/25 Clerk’s report
There was nothing to report.
17/25 For information only; items for the forward agenda
Village ward: Cllr C Hall (Chair), Cllr A Rowe (Vice Chair), Cllr D Valentine, Cllr A Powell
Vale ward: Cllr P Orchard
In attendance: Cllr Phil Twiss (DCC), Andrea Rye (member of the public), Fiona Clampin (clerk)
Apologies for absence: Cllr Alasdair Bruce (EDDC), PCSO Darren England
179/24 To accept and approve apologies
Apologies were received and accepted.
180/24 To confirm the minutes of the meetings held on 6th March 2025
The minutes of the meeting held on 6th March 2025 were confirmed and signed by the Chair.
181/24 To receive the Beat Manager’s Report
January 2025
Nether Close: 2 x violence & sexual offences, 1 x other theft
Hamlett Close: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Rowan Close: 1 x criminal damage & arson
Nags Head Road: 1 x other theft
February 2025
Nags Head Road: 1 x violence & sexual offences
Meadow Acre: 1 x burglary
182/24 To receive declarations of interest
The Chair and Cllr Valentine declared an interest in agenda item 9a) (minute ref. 187/24a) as they are shareholders of Gittisham Community Land Trust.
183/24 To consider actions from the last meeting not otherwise on the agenda
The clerk said EDDC had replied to her enquiry regarding ward member representation. She understands that Gittisham’s current make-up is in line with NALC’s recommendation.
184/24 To receive reports from County Council and District Council representatives
Cllr Twiss explained that this was his final Division members’ report for this version of Devon County Council, where a new, much different in member composition, (largely due to around half of councillors retiring from what at times can be an unforgiving role) that will be elected on 1st May. He thanked councillors and members of the public for the support that they have given him in the last four years. This has seen a huge amount change taking place, as we emerged from Covid and continue to recover from that dark time, set against a background of a severely underfunded local government sector facing huge challenges to fulfil its statutory obligations, particularly in adult, children’s and highways services.
Cllr Twiss said his report was limited and of a factual nature only, given we are currently in the election regulated period or ‘purdah’ which restricts what councillors can and cannot say or do. The period ends on 2nd May following the completion of DCC elections.
New Domestic Abuse Support Service launches
A new integrated Domestic Abuse Support Service has been launched by Devon County Council, and it aims to transform how people in the county access and receive support. The service will be provided by the Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance, a partnership of seven local organisations: North Devon Against Domestic Abuse (NDADA), Encompass Southwest, CoLab Exeter, More Positive Me, The Olive Project, CRAFT Training and Development and Surviving Abuse North Devon. Each partner brings a wealth of expertise, which will help ensure that those in need of the service, their friends and families as well as professionals receive the right advice, information and care at the right time. At the heart of this approach is My Story, a person-centred approach led by a dedicated support team, which aims to avoid individuals being referred to multiple services and then asked to share their traumatic experiences multiple times.
The service will include:
Single Entry Gateway – A single point of contact offering clear, accessible pathways to support, with phone, text, email, and online chat options to make help easy to reach.
Community Domestic Abuse Support – Specialist teams providing risk management, and safety planning tailored to each person’s situation, as well as whole family support and interventions to address the behaviours of those causing harm.
Safe Accommodation, Staying Put, and Resettlement Support – A range of refuge and dispersed safe accommodation solutions and help for people to remain safely in their own home.
Trauma-Responsive Recovery – Dedicated one-to-one and group therapeutic interventions and peer support, ensuring survivors receive the emotional support needed to heal.
Specialist Support – Addressing complex needs such as mental health, substance use, and homelessness, including safe accommodation and outreach options.
Behaviour Change – Interventions to help those who harm break the cycle of abuse and take responsibility for change.
For more information, support, or to refer someone to the service from 1st April 2025, contact: 0808 281 6161.
Children with EHCPs allocated places in their first-choice mainstream school
One hundred per cent of families of children with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) have been allocated places in their first-choice mainstream school from September. Families sometimes request that DCC considers specialist education alongside mainstream provision, and where specialist provision was requested by families, 87 per cent have been allocated places suitable to their child’s special educational and disability needs. Thirteen per cent were allocated places in their mainstream school of choice or their nearest suitable school that can meet their child’s needs.
The latest figures follow DCC’s announcement earlier this month describing an overall increase in the number of families being allocated their first choices of Devon secondary school places for September. Seven thousand, three hundred and ninety-eight allocations were made in total for places at Devon mainstream secondary schools this September. In allocating places for pupils with EHCPs, DCC first consults with the requested school or other setting to ask if they are suitable in being able to meet the child’s needs, and whether they have space. DCC considers the schools’ or settings’ response against a legal criteria as well as the parents’ preferences before making a decision to determine a setting by name (of school, for example) and/or what type of setting or provision to name on their EHCP.
DCC to maintain Free School Meal vouchers as support fund reduced
The Government has confirmed a 11.87% decrease in this year’s Household Support Fund allocation. The Fund, operating since 2021 and now in its seventh round, was introduced to help individuals and families that are struggling financially with the rising cost of living, such as the costs of energy, food, and other essential household items. Over that period, DCC channelled its allocation of Household Support Funding into providing a range of support, including the provision of Free School Meal holiday vouchers to families with children and young people who are eligible free school meals during term time.
Citizen’s Advice Devon has used some of DCC’s allocation to support households that use pre-payment meters, often paying higher unit costs and digital meters to help them afford and budget for their energy usage. Devon’s district councils have used their allocation of the Household Support Fund to support older residents and individuals known to be on low incomes and/or claiming certain benefits, and who are struggling with the high costs of living. The Department of Work and Pensions’ decrease means that where last year, DCC received £10.1 million, this year Devon will receive £8.9 million. Cllr Twiss said the impact is likely to hit some of the county’s most vulnerable residents, at a time of continued high prices for food, fuel, and other essential household items.
DCC has confirmed that it will maintain the Free School Meal holiday vouchers, at the same £15 per week per eligible child level, for this Easter and May half-term holidays. Beyond that though, with Devon County Council heading towards local elections on 1st May, it will be a decision for the council’s new administration as to how it will allocate the reduced purse to its partner organisations that support people struggling with the cost of living.
In his absence, Cllr Bruce sent the following report: “It’s becoming harder to know what to say with the avalanche of planning applications hitting this little corner of Devon. With this Labour government it’s fast becoming the Wild West of planning, with previously sound reasons to object being swept away, and scant regard to the impact our fragile communities are going to have to deal with. With this frantic push for housing numbers, long cherished, and hard-won, characteristics of our villages are under threat like never before. If these targets are achieved, they will alter the very fabric of our countryside permanently. Which is why I always ask anyone who emails me concerning a planning application to take part in the consultation process with EDDC, and encourage others to do the same. Whilst we are forced to put forward all the obvious reasons to refuse, and then watch in horror as they are summarily dismissed, I still believe weight of numbers can count with the committee. There is little left to say at this point other than to keep fighting at every opportunity wherever we can.
“It seems a bit irrelevant to follow the above with a comment on the upcoming devolution of your district and county councils, but I mention it here as I believe, although not mentioned in the white paper, parish and town councils may be required to take a greater portion of the areas of responsibility currently placed elsewhere. The short deadline required by Government has meant those involved scrabbling to come up with a plan, rather than have a solution imposed on us. Make no mistake, there are going to be profound changes to the way local government works. My fear is that these changes will reduce services, and levels of responsibility and accountability. Devolution it is not in my view.
“Sewerage issues are once again in the news, and not just in Feniton, but across the South West. The figures recently released make for shocking reading. We seem to be going backwards in terms of water quality. I have given up swimming in the sea after contracting a serious illness the medical profession suggest I picked up there. These are pursuits we used to, and still should, take for granted. We should expect and demand that our elected representatives who have some level of control over this do far better than they currently do. I believe the state our water quality now is in brings shame on our country.
“Finally, I thought I’d share with you some recent emails from Highways with you. This followed a series of complaints from Highways regarding some recent repairs. The first was where a large culvert was replaced after waiting for three years! You imagine the bewildered surprise of the locals when they saw the input grate to the culvert had been placed some 8 inches above the catch point for water rushing down the road. When this was pointed out to the engineer, he emailed to say ‘hopefully it might catch some water from time to time’. That’s like a NASA engineer saying ‘let’s hope the engines fire on re-entry! The last one was a doozy when I got a reply from Highways saying ‘the road condition was not to our preferred standard, but no repairs will be undertaken at this time’. My complaint has always been that it doesn’t matter how much money a government throws at the state of our roads, there is a fundamental problem with how we do these repairs. The above two are just a couple of examples where ratepayers’ money has been wasted and are only a mile apart. Multiply that across the country and it’s obvious there must a catastrophic waste of money going on. Finally I’ll leave you with a recent repair near me where Highways filled a long repair by the side of the road. Did they use tarmac? Why do that when soil will do just as well!”
Cllr Twiss left the meeting.
185/24 To consider the hedges along Hayne Lane / Devonshire Road
Members heard that a resident had complained about the level of hedge cutting along this stretch of road, which they considered to be drastic. However, councillors agreed that the cutting had been done outside of the nesting season, and now appeared to be growing back.
ACTION: Clerk to respond to resident.
186/24 To receive a report on the EDDC Local Plan and consider contracting a planning consultant
Cllr Valentine said he had formally submitted the parish council’s objections to EDDC’s Local Plan, and indicated that the GPC would like to be engaged in the process when the examination in public takes place. He explained that Broadhembury PC had taken a different approach, and challenged the legal basis for the work done on the plan, after seeking advice from a planning consultant. Members agreed with the Chair’s suggestion that a planning consultant should be invited to a future meeting to allow councillors to discuss whether someone representing the parish council would be an appropriate course of action.
Members heard that some parishioners had found the template letter helpful in submitting their comments to the Local Plan, and the Chair thanked Cllrs Rowe and Valentine who had drawn it up.
ACTION: Clerk to contact Broadhembury PC to enquire about consultant advice.
The Chair and Cllr Valentine left the meeting. Cllr Rowe took the chair.
187/24 To consider the following planning applications:
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.
25/0637/FUL – 2 Ferndale Close Honiton EX14 2YN – Construction of two-storey side extension
24/2270/FUL – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
24/2271/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace all windows. Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
25/0659/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – To take down existing wall to barns 1 and 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
25/0660/VAR – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Variation of Condition number 2 (approved plans) on planning permission 20/0781/FUL (Conversion of barn to holiday let accommodation) proposal to take down existing wall to Barns 1 & 2 and rebuild as masonry cavity wall with stone face
Councillors had no objections to b), c), d), e) and f).
ACTION: Clerk to resend parish council’s supportive comments for a).
188/24 To receive reports from councillors on areas of responsibility and actions since the last meeting:
To consider the provision of superfast broadband in the parish (Cllr Powell)
Cllr Powell said he had spoken to somebody at Virgin, who had advised him to make enquiries with Wildanet who specialise in rural broadband. Cllr Powell agreed to get in touch with Richard Foord MP, as it has been almost a year since he met parish council members to discuss broadband.
To note the latest planning decision notices
Cllr Orchard said there were no updates.
To receive an update on Highways
No planned works proposed for foreseeable future, although maintenance and safety checks of overhead power lines will close roads north of the parish in late April, said Cllr Orchard.
To consider plans for expenditure in the parish under the Community Infrastructure Levy & S106
Nothing to report this month.
To receive an update on public transport
Nothing to report this month.
To consider climate change measures within the parish, including proposals for rewilding land in the parish
Members discussed whether it would be necessary to reseed the area at the bottom of Old Elm Road, where travellers have appeared in the last day or so.
To consider limited residential development in the parish
Cllr Valentine said the Gittisham CLT board would be meeting on 23rd April. The deadline for the extension of time on the planning application expires on 6th June. Survey work which was being required for the revised application has just been done and therefore there will be a report which can go to EDDC prior to 6th June.
To consider the creation of a footpath linking Hayne Farm with Gittisham village
Members concluded that any progress on footpaths would be more likely to happen once the allocations in EDDC’s Local Plan had been decided, and so it was agreed to take this off the agenda for the time being.
To consider the refurbishment and maintenance of the village play area
The Chair thanked Cllr Powell for his donation of a Tom Putt apple tree. Members discussed the work arising from the annual safety inspection, and noted that one of the swing frames was beginning to show its age. It was agreed to ask one or more of the new councillors if they would get involved in carrying out some of the tasks identified.
ACTION: Cllr Powell to arrange a working party with Cllrs Rowe, Orchard and the new councillors.
ACTION: Clerk to ask safety inspector for advice on signs for the play area.
To consider work to be carried out by the lengthsman to maintain ditches and drains in the parish
The Chair urged all members to identify areas which needed work and bring them to the next meeting, if they could not be fixed by councillors themselves.
ACTION: Clerk to contact Tom Cox at DCC Highways regarding the flood gauge for the Iron Bridge.
189/24 To receive a report from the Chair
The Chair said there was no update this month.
190/24 To approve the April payments and to note the current bank balance
Members resolved to approve the following payments:
F Clampin £266.75 clerk’s salary + £13.50 expenses (travel Ottery – Gittisham 7.5-mile round trip x 4 for agendas, minutes, election & March meeting @0.45p / mile)
Michael Poll, grass cutting play area £70 (inv. ref. 10390)
Alvian Play & Recreation, annual play area safety inspection £102 (inv. ref. INV-1188)
Gittisham PCC Jan–March parish room hire £45
DALC annual subscription £446.17
NEST £28.08 (clerk’s pension)
Members heard that the first half of the annual precept had been received, and were informed that the current bank balance stands at £27,265.49 (which includes approximately £7,156.88 in the business reserve account).
191/24 To consider the casual vacancies in Gittisham Village & Gittisham Vale
Andrea Rye outlined her experience and what skills she felt she could bring to the parish council. She said she was particularly keen to be involved in anything plant-related. Ms Rye and Gary Pester were elected by a unanimous vote to represent Gittisham Vale and Gittisham Village ward respectively.
ACTION: Clerk to send new councillors register of interests form and investigate training courses.
Andrea Rye left the meeting.
192/24 Clerk’s report
None.
193/24 For information only; items for the forward agenda
No additional items.
194/24 To consider any late entry correspondence
The clerk said she had reported the encampment on land at the bottom of Old Elm Road to both the police and EDDC. The Chair said she had replied to several residents’ enquiries about this.
195/24 Date of next two meetings
Thursday 8th May and Thursday 5th June 2025 at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2035 hrs.
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.
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 21st 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 19th 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 31st 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:
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 11th 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 25th 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 17th April and Thursday 8th May 2025 at 7.30pm.
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 2105 hrs.
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:
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.
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 15th 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 11th 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 11th 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
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.
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!
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 15th 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 14th 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.
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 29th 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 16th 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.
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:
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
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.
24/2270/FUL – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Remove all external render and re-render with a lime-based mortar and construct enclosed front terrace, retaining walls and gate
24/2271/LBC – Rapshayes Farm Gittisham EX14 3AB – Replace door on front elevation, replace 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
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