Dec 12, 2025 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Cornworthy Village Hall on Wednesday 3 December 2025 at 7:00pm
Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), J Green, N Green, Hawkes, Pope & Unitt were present, as was D.Cllr McKay for part of the meeting, C Radford (Clerk). No members of the public were present.
Apologies: Cllrs Neale, Golding
Public Forum No members of the public were present.
1. Apologies Were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests No interests were declared on items on the agenda. It was noted that the Parish Council is the applicant on application 3366/25/TCA for discussion under item 9.2.
3. Approval of Minutes:
It was RESOLVED to approve of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on November 5 2025 without amendments.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
– Local Government Reorganisation proposals have been submitted, and Officers can return to ‘business as usual’.
– It was reported that the police have provided an email address to use should the Parish Council have any queries about the recent fire on land in the Parish.
– It was noted that the National Emergency Briefing on Climate and Nature took place in took place in London on 27th November, and the D.Cllr reviewing the material available online.
– Community Transport meetings are ongoing between officers, members and the local MP, with a focus on solving community transport issues in the South Hams.
– The District Council’ Markets Food and agriculture officer is working with markets in Ivybridge, Salcombe and Kingsbridge to help them become more vibrant in order to support the local green economy.
-Work on Street Cleaning is ongoing, working on publishing schedules for street cleaning to make the process more transparent. An email address for the Street Cleaning team has been provided that the Clerk will forward to the Maintenance Working Group.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor No report
5. Councillor Vacancy It was confirmed that a meeting with candidates will take place on December 15, leading to cooption.
6. Financial Matters
6.1 Receipts and Payments between meetings The following receipts and payments were noted:
– Income from Devon County Council invoice 23 for P3 Grant = £180 no VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) Machine Receipts from The Ham Car Park = £2372.85 including VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) Machine Receipts from The Level Car Park = £1319.95 including VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) from bank interest (Natwest) = 326.41 no VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) from bank interest (Lloyds) = £20.71 no VAT
– Payment 2511_11 to Lloyds Bank for bank fees = £4.25 no VAT
– Payment 2511_12 to HMRC for VAT return Q2 = £26.61
6.2 December Payments It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:
– Payment 2511_10 to ARCCAS Inv 165 Grounds maintenance services carried out during October (Steps) at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
– Payment 2512_1a to Slarcombe Inv520a Handrails for Jubilee Steps 27.1 metres and 15 upright supports. Design as to supplied schematic. Minus deposit. = £ 30 no VAT
– Payment 2512_1b to Slarcombe Inv521 Jubilee Steps Extra Labour = £111.7 no VAT
– Payment 2512_2 to CRadford November Clerk Salary = £986.79 no VAT
– Payment 2512_3 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £286.16 no VAT
– Payment 2512_4 Pension contributions on Clerk’s Nov Salary = £50.85 no VAT
– Payment 2512_5 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Oct) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2512_6 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Nov at 12EUR per month (£10.53). Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Nov at £4.90 per month. Total 14.61 plus 82p VAT = £15.43
– Payment 2512_7 to South Hams District Council Invoice 22378713 for Cashless Processing fees for 1st July 2025 to 30th September 2025 for The Level and The Hams Cashless Income at £777.21 plus £155.44 VAT = £932.65
– Payment 2512_8 to ARCCAS Inv 190 Grounds maintenance services carried out during November (Steps) at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
– Payment 2512_9 to Cornworthy Village Hall Meeting room booking at £14 per hour plus 3 x £5 electricity cards (Estimate) = £39 ESTIMATE
– Payment 2512_10 Expected invoice from Teign Trees based accepted quotation RHS Boundary Hedge: Trim top and both sides hard back to previous pruning at £590 plus £118 VAT = £708 It was noted that it was incorrectly understood that the adjacent property owner had paid a portion of the costs of this work in the past, however the Parish Council should pay the full cost. It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council would pay the full invoice.
– Payment 2512_11 to South Hams District Council Inv22380510 For emptying of 3 litter bins on the Ham once a week (17 collections) 09/07/25-29/10/25 at £255 plus £51VAT = £306
– Payment 2512_13 to Society of Local Council Clerks for 50% of Annual Membership Fee = £120
6.3 2025/26 Budget Forecast for councillors to receive 2025/26 budget forecast report and make any comment to the Finance Working Group ahead of their meeting to set a draft 2026/27 budget. Cllrs received a 2025/26 budget forecast report as prepared by the Clerk. It was noted that car park income was less than anticipated. No further comments were raised.
6.4 Dittisham Sailing Club – Ham parking permits Confirmation of 2026/27 permit price It was RESOLVED to increase the cost of permits by the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of 3.8%. which would increase the cost of permits from £36.10 to £37.48. The Sailing Club has indicated that they will round this up to charge members £37.50.
7. Grant application from Dittisham Village Hall for consideration The application for a grant of £4000 in the 2026/27 financial year was discussed. It was RESOLVED that the Finance Working Group review the Parish Council’s finances, look closely at the application and make a recommendation to the Parish Council on making a grant offer, and on what conditions.
8. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions To note the following:
– 2791/25/HHO Riverside House Riverside Road Dittisham Householder application for extension & renovations APPROVE
9. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
9.1 3172/25/LBC Downton Barton Dittisham Listed building consent for repairs & alterations to include replacement of windows rooflights, re-rendering in lime, re-laying slate floors, re-building chimney, damp treatment, bathroom reconfiguration, roof & leadwork repairs It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
9.2 3366/25/TCA Dittisham T08: Ash – Reduce the tree to approx. 3 mtrs in height, retaining the trunk as a valuable deadwood habitat for invertebrates and other wildlife It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
9.3 3418/25/HHO Sunday School The Level Dittisham Rear extension to provide first floor shower room and WC. It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application
10. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
10.1 Health: Dartmouth Medical Practice Patient Participant Group To receive an update on the recent AGM. Cllrs J Green and Unitt were there. The presentation had been circulated to cllrs. It was commented that the appointments system now in place appears to be extremely efficient.
10.2 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps It was noted that the project is now complete.
10.3 Maintenance: Working Group To receive an update from the Maintenance Working Group Meeting held on 17/11/25 and consider any recommendations. It was noted that the following works had been undertaken:
– The Ham a) Damaged end of the gate at the top of Ham Lane cut; b) Dead trees in Ham carpark cut down – arisings used to bolster habitat pile at the back of the salt marsh and dead hedge in South tree line. c) Rimmed tree line adjacent to parking area on North side of Ham car park; d) Recurring problem of pot holes in carpark filled in; e) Pot hole on Ham Lane filled in with cold tarmac. f) Fallen tree in the boat park – cut up and added to habitat pile nearby.
– Old Chapel Burial Ground a) Vegetation from top layer of wall has been removed b) Memorial hand test completed
– Level Car Park Salt Bin has been re-sited.
– Manor St Triangle Dog poo bin in has been fixed to the wall.
– Capton Phone Box and noticed board have been cleaned.
It was noted that quotes are being obtained for maintenance work, and that the invitation to tender will go through the Clerk.
10.4 Neighbourhood Plan It was reported that the initial survey will be circulated just before Christmas, with a deadline at the end of January, following which a public meeting will be held. It was agreed to use the same distribution list as was used for circulation of the Emergency Plan letters. It was confirmed that a map of the Parish boundary had been sent to the Local Planning Authority to accompany the Parish Council’s Reg 5 application for designation of a neighbourhood area.
10.6 Dittisham Village Hall Notes from the AGM and committee meeting had been circulated and had been read.
10.7 Friends of the Dart To receive the Friends of the Dart September 2025 data review. Cllrs were encouraged to read the report. There was discussion on the permit system in place that allows the discharge of sewage overflow. Cllrs commented on the frequency of these occurrences during periods of rainfall, discharge locations and complaints from the public. Cllr N.Green commented on discussions he has held with the Environment Agency and the local MP to change the system and prevent permitted discharge of sewage. Cllrs agreed to collect photos and report discharge frequency in order to support this campaign.
10.8 Dart Harbour Communities Group To receive an update from the meeting of 06/11/25. Minutes from the meeting were circulated and noted.
10.9 West Dart Bus To receive an update on bus parking options Advice had been sought from the C.Cllr who commented that it is was considered unlikely that the HATOC committee would support provision of a designated space on the highway without community support. It was RESOLVED to make an application to HATOC, which should include evidence of community support. It was queried whether the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group would include a question about support for a bus parking space on the highway. There was a discussion about providing a space in one of the Parish Council car parks in which it was noted that the Road Traffic Regulation Act does not permit a single letting for longer than 7 days. Leasing a small area of the car park to the bus with an easement for access could offer a solution, but legal fees to establish this could be cost prohibitive.
11. Clerk’s Report Nothing to report.
12. Trees
12.1 Ham Tree Works To receive update on quote acceptance and date for works. It was confirmed that on receipt of a requote to provide a like-for-like comparison, Pittman Trees was contracted to undertake the works to pollard the ash tree #8 on The Ham, and wood chippings & cord-wood to be stacked neatly in the wildlife habitat area at the base of the tree, for a cost of £200 plus VAT. Works would be scheduled once the outcome of the application for tree works in a conservation area is known.
12.2 Response to a member of the public’s concern about impact of failure of trees at the Level Car Park Cllrs had received papers prepared by the Clerk that compiled correspondence from the homeowner, the Parish Council’s insurer and arboriculturist. It was RESOLVED to respond to the landowner that the Parish Council is satisfied with insurance arrangements and inspection regime. Parish Council recognises your concern and seeking additional expert advice. ACTION: The Clerk to write to South Hams District Council’s Tree Officer for comment.
13. Grounds Maintenance Contract Consider scope of contract for 2025 – 2028. It was RESOLVED to make no alterations to the scope of the contract and that ACTION: The Clerk should go ahead and seek to renew.
14. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use It was commented that the kiosk needs to be sealed and dried. Most responses received to date were in support of a book exchange.
15. Red Lion Inn Cllrs received an update from the Clerk on arrangements for receipt of a peppercorn rent and having reviewed the insurance arrangements against the lease. It was RESOLVED to politely ask the Red Lion Inn a number of questions on behalf of the Parish Council.
16. Free Parish Boat Park Cllrs received an update from Cllr Unitt. It was RESOLVED that Cllr Unitt make further enquiries from adjacent landowners about their views on the land.
17. Potential new car park There was no further news on which to update the Council.
18. Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.
To note:
– Data Protection fee – direct debit due to be collected ICO:00012056244 Cllrs were informed that the fee of £52 minus £5 Direct Debit Discount will be collected on or before 13/12/2025.
– Dittisham Village Hall tariff rates Cllrs were informed that the Village Hall will be raising hire charges for the first time since before the pandemic to meet increased running costs. The Parish Council will continued to be charged the ‘affiliated club’ tariff, which will increase from £20 to £25 for a 4 hour session in the School Room.
– TTRO2566809 Temporary Traffic Notice Lee Lane to Capton Cross Cllrs were informed that the Temporary Traffic Order has been amended as the original notice was wrongly issued with a diversion route. The road into Capton is a cul de sac, there is no alternative access along Lee Lane, from either direction. Access will be maintained for residents.
– TTRO2565898 Temporary Traffic Notice – CAPTON BRIDGE CROSS TO HEMBOROUGH POST CROSS Cllrs were informed of a road closure in place from 15 – 17/12/25 affecting roads at Capton Bridge Cross to Hemborough Post Cross, Blackawton and from Lee Lane to The Sportsmans Arms. This is to enable Airband works.
– #51 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that the e-bulletin includes news of new ‘Being a Good Councillor’ training available from January onwards.
To consider
– Dittisham community store The Parish Council has been asked by a representative of the community store if it has up to date statistics on the number of households/properties in the Parish, the number of permanent residents and proportion of second homes. This data would help inform the store’s financial model and business plan. The Clerk has forwarded the Parish Council’s policy on awarding grants in response to a query about available funding. ACTION: Cllr Unitt will send the Clerk a list of properties compiled without personal data, produced as part of the Emergency Planning process, from which the Clerk can extrapolate data about number of properties in the Parish.
19. Next Meeting: To confirm the next monthly meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday January 7 2026 at 7:00pm at Dittisham Village Hall.
Meeting was closed at 21:10
Dec 11, 2025 | Agendas
DITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL
Incorporating the Hamlet of Capton and the Manors of Bozomzeal and Coombe
To all members of Dittisham Parish Council 10th December 2025
You are hereby summoned to attend the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council to be held in Dittisham Village Hall on Monday 15th December 2025 at 5:00pm for the purpose of transacting the following business.
AGENDA
- Apologies To receive and sanction apologies for absence.
- Declaration of Interests To declare interests on items on the Agenda.
- Councillor Vacancy
- To agree approach to conversation with applicants having reviewed the questions asked of previous candidates in 2024
- To meet with candidates in turn:
- 5:20pm Candidate 1
- 5:40pm Candidate 2
- 6:00pm Candidate 3
- To undertake a vote to co-opt a councillor to fill the available vacancy
Cat Radford, Parish Clerk
A copy of the agenda can be downloaded here (PDF)
Nov 28, 2025 | Agendas
DITTISHAM PARISH COUNCIL
Incorporating the Hamlet of Capton and the Manors of Bozomzeal and Coombe
To all members of Dittisham Parish Council 28 November 2025
You are hereby summoned to attend the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council to be held in Cornworthy Village Hall on Wednesday 3rd December 2025 at 7:00p.m for the purpose of transacting the following business.
Public Forum To consider any issues raised by members of the public.
Members of the public are invited to give their views, to question the Parish Council about issues on this Agenda, or to raise issues for future consideration at the discretion of the Chair.
1 Apologies To receive and sanction apologies for absence.
2 Declaration of Interests To declare interests on items on the Agenda.
3 Approval of Minutes To consider approval of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on 3 November 2025
4 Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor
5 Councillor Vacancy Consider process of co-option having received three applications
6 Financial Matters
6.1 Receipts and Payments between meetings to note for information
6.2 December Payments for authorisation
6.3 2025/26 Budget Forecast for councillors to receive 2025/26 budget forecast report and make any comment to the Finance Working Group ahead of their meeting to set a draft 2026/27 budget.
6.4 Dittisham Sailing Club – Ham parking permits Confirmation of 2026/27 permit price
7 Grant application from Dittisham Village Hall for consideration
8 South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions To note the following:
8.1 2791/25/HHO Riverside House Riverside Road Dittisham Householder application for extension & renovations APPROVED
9 New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
9.1 3172/25/LBC Downton Barton Dittisham Listed building consent for repairs & alterations to include replacement of windows rooflights, re-rendering in lime, re-laying slate floors, re-building chimney, damp treatment, bathroom reconfiguration, roof & leadwork repairs
9.2 3366/25/TCA Dittisham T08: Ash – Reduce the tree to approx. 3 mtrs in height, retaining the trunk as a valuable deadwood habitat for invertebrates and other wildlife
9.3 3418/25/HHO Sunday School The Level Dittisham Rear extension to provide first floor shower room and WC.
10 Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
10.1 Health: Dartmouth Medical Practice Patient Participant Group To receive an update on the recent AGM.
10.2 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps To receive an update on project completion
10.3 Maintenance: Working Group To receive an update from the Maintenance Working Group Meeting held on 17/11/25 and consider any recommendations
10.4 Neighbourhood Plan To receive an update
10.5 Dittisham Village Hall To receive a report from the AGM and Committee meeting
10.6 Friends of the Dart To receive the Friends of the Dart September 2025 data review
10.7 Dart Harbour Communities Group To receive an update from the meeting of 06/11/25
10.8 West Dart Bus To receive an update on bus parking options
11 Clerk’s Report to receive an update from the Clerk on any matters arising within the month
12 Trees
12.1 Ham Tree Works To receive update on quote acceptance and date for works.
12.2 Response to a member of the public’s concern about impact of failure of trees at the Level Car Park To agree a response to the Member of the Public having reviewed correspondence from the insurer, arboriculturist and homeowner.
13 Grounds Maintenance Contract Consider scope of contract for 2025 – 2028
14 The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use
15 Red Lion Inn To receive an update from the Clerk on peppercorn rent and insurance arrangements and consider response
16 Free Parish Boat Park Receive update on potential options to improve management of the area at the end of Dittisham Sailing Club Boat Park
17 Potential new car park To receive an update on options under discussion in the community.
18 Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.
To note:
– 20251009 #47 2025 DALC E-bulletin
– 20251101 Data Protection fee – direct debit due to be collected ICO:00012056244
– 20251116 Dittisham Village Hall tariff rates
– 20251118 TTRO2566809 Temporary Traffic Notice Lee Lane to Capton Cross
– 20251120 T TTRO2565898 Temporary Traffic Notice – CAPTON BRIDGE CROSS TO HEMBOROUGH POST CROSS
– 20251126 #51 2025 DALC E-bulletin
To consider:
– 20251027 Dittisham community store
19 Next Meeting: To confirm the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday January 7 2026 at 7:00 pm.
PRESS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC ARE VERY WELCOME TO ATTEND
Cat Radford, Parish Clerk
Nov 20, 2025 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 5 November 2025 at 7:00pm
Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), J Green, Hawkes, Neale, Pope & Unitt were present, as was C.Cllr Rake for part of the meeting, C Radford (Clerk). 3 members of the public were present.
Apologies: Cllrs N Green, Golding.
Public Forum No matters were raised by members of the public.
1. Apologies Were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Bond on item 17.3 payment 2511_4. Cllr Neale on item 17.3 payment 2511_9.
3. Approval of Minutes:
It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the monthly meeting held on 1 October 2025 with minor amendments.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor (D.Cllr) The D.Cllr was not in attendance to provide an update.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor (C.Cllr) The following update was given.
– Devon County Council (DCC) is encouraging people to come forward as foster parents.
– The Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy has been published and open for consultation.
– The C.Cllr has visited Hope Wood in South Brent; a piece of land that SHDC acquired with financial support from DEFRA that provides an amenity space for the community. South Hams District Council (SHDC) will receive biodiversity net gain credits. South Hams will gain money from biodiversity net gain credits, as part of the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest partnership.
– Devon County Highways (Highways) has now moved to their winter regime, where their priorities shift to snow, ice, leaves and water over the fixing of potholes.
– Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) proposals will be submitted to Whitehall shortly, following which there will be a period of respite whilst Government considers them. It was confirmed that several proposals are being put forward in Devon. This includes the ‘New Devon’ proposal put forward by Devon County Council, the 4-5-1 proposal which is the preferred option of the District and Borough councils. Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay propose that they each become Unitary Authorities. Plymouth and Exeter propose extending their boundaries and that the remainder become a single unitary. The C.Cllr was asked his opinion on whether reducing barriers to house building in rural areas is a motivating factor for LGR. The C.Cllr commented that there are a number of uncommenced permissions in the region due to conditions of building. It was commented that the Devolution is the bigger strategic direction of travel – where there is the potential that a regional mayor could get money from Whitehall to support the costs of a new town, for example.
5. Councillor Vacancy Consider process of co-option having received three applications. It was agreed to hold a separate meeting with candidates ahead of the next meeting of the Parish Council. It was agreed to hold less formal ‘co-option hustings’ that would be more conversational than a structured interview. The Clerk will invite applicants a meeting on Monday November 17.
6. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions The following decisions were noted:
6.1 2507/25/LBC Limekiln Dittisham Listed Building Consent for sympathetic replacement of failed oak lintel & consolidation of loose stonework APPROVED
6.2 2643/25/TCA 2 Watermans Cottage, Manor Street Dittisham. T1: Elm – remove, Dutch Elm Disease. APPROVED
6.3 2618/25/LBC Bozomzeal Manor, Bozomzeal, Dittisham. Listed Building Consent for additional insulation/plasterboard over existing plasterboard ceiling finish. APPROVED
6.4 2821/25/TCA Dartway The Level Dittisham T1: Cherry – crown height reduction by up to 3.0m, lateral reduction around canopy by approximately 1–2m, to create a balanced and natural form. APPROVED
7. New Planning Applications the Parish Council considered the following applications:
7.1 2791/25/HHO Riverside House Riverside Road Dittisham Householder application for extension & renovations It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
7.2 2596/25/HHO Quicks Cottage Lower Street Dittisham Householder application for construction of timber summer house in garden It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
8. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
8.1 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps To receive an update on project progress, redesign and associated costs. It was reported that works are due to start this week. Following a site meeting with the contractor the position of the uprights have been marked out. Alterations will cost an additional £200. Members of the Working Group are aware that the steps can be slippery and are looking at how this can be resolved.
8.2 Maintenance: Manor Street Project To receive an update on arrangements for installation of the dog waste bin. It was reported that the maintenance working group will be fixing the new dog waste bin to replace the temporary bin.
8.3 Maintenance: Working Group
8.3.1 Update from the Maintenance Working Group Meeting held on 21/10/25 Minutes from the Maintenance Working Group had been circulated with meeting papers. Minutes showed that the Working Group had reviewed at the regular jobs list, noting where maintenance items have been completed, are ongoing or to be undertaken.
8.3.2 Maintenance Working Group recommendations Full council considered recommendations as follows:
– Arccas contract: It was RESOLVED to follow the recommendation of the Working Group and extend the groundworks contract with ARCCAS for a further 2 years. It was RESOLVED to look at the contract and what is included at the next meeting.
– Ham Triangle/Riverside Road Boundary It was RESOLVED to follow the recommendation of the Working group and add lengths of silver birch trunks alongside the stones.
– Ham Lane/Riverside House Hedge Cutting: It was recommended that the Parish Council obtain quotes for the recommend that the Parish Council obtain quotes for the whole job, with the proposal that the Parish Council pay two-thirds of the cost, on the basis that in the past DPC has paid for the Ham Lane side and the top of the hedge to be cut. Three quotes had been obtained and presented to the Parish Council for consideration. After discussion it was RESOLVED that the Parish Council’s support the quote from Teign Trees at a cost of £590 plus VAT to cut the hedge and to request that the contractor split the invoice. It was delegated to Cllr Neale to relay this decision to the owner of Riverside House and the contractor.
8.4 Finance: Quarterly meeting
8.4.1 Update from the Quarter 2 meeting held on 28/10/25 Minutes of the meeting had been circulated with papers. It was noted that the car park income had now been received for Quarter 1 and Quarter 4. The Working Group noted that actual car park income to date is not in line with predicted income. This is not currently a concern but the working group is keeping a close eye on this.
8.4.2 Finance Working Group recommendations Full council considered recommendations:
– It was RESOLVED the Clerk paid an overtime of 9 hours overtime for quarter 2.
– It was RESOLVED the meeting costs incurred in hiring the Village Hall for meetings relating to the Neighbourhood Plan in the current financial year should be covered by the Parish Council’s budget.
8.5 Neighbourhood Plan To receive an update. Minutes of the last meeting had been circulated with papers. It was noted that the Steering Group is now up and running. First action is to survey all members of the Parish to ask people what they most valued about being in the Parish. This will be conducted over Christmas/January and the Steering Group will meet again in February to take this forward. It was noted that the Parish Council’s submission of Designation of Plan Area could not be processed without inclusion of a map of the Parish boundary. ACTION: Cllr Unitt and Bond to to support the production of a PDF map of the Parish Boundary through Parish Online.
8.6 West Dart Bus To receive an update and consider bus parking options. It was reported that the school bus contract is up and running. A second bus may be purchased soon. There was a discussion in which options for parking the second bus at a site in Dittisham were considered. This would increase visibility of the West Dart Bus in Dittisham and opportunities might arise to take trips. It was RESOLVED to support a parking space for the West Dart Bus in either the Level Car Park or on Riverside Road, and to delegate investigation of the two proposed options to Cllr Hawkes for him to make the necessary arrangements.
9. Clerk’s Report to receive an update from the Clerk on any matters arising within the month. It was reported that the Clerk has updated contact details with the Information Commissioner’s Office and providing her details as the Data Protection Officer.
10. Trees
10.1 Tree Survey Recommendation: Ham Tree Works Consider quotations received to appoint a contractor. Three quotations were sought to undertake works to reduce tree 8, an ash tree on the Ham to approximately 3 metres in height, retaining the trunk as a valuable deadwood habitat for invertebrates and other wildlife. Four quotes were obtained from ARB Approved Contractors. Two quotes were preferred but there was variation between contractor A and C on treatment of arisings. It was RESOLVED to request that contractor C requote to provide a like for like comparison. It was delegated to the Clerk to accept the cheaper of the two quotes once the requote had been received.
10.2 Tree Survey Recommendation: Re-siting Grit Bin at the Level Car Park It was reported that Devon County Highways had been informed of tree survey recommendation to move the bin. Highways responded with no objections, commenting that the Parish Council would likely be able to progress the project more swiftly than Highways could deal with it. It was agreed that the Parish Council would move the grit bin. ACTION: The Maintenance Working Group would discuss possible locations at their next meeting on November 17.
10.3 Response to a member of the public’s concern about impact of failure of trees at the Level Car Park The Clerk provided a verbal update to the Parish Council, following communication with the Parish Council’s insurer, with the arboriculturist that produced the annual tree survey, and further correspondence from the member of the public concerned about the trees at the Level. It was RESOLVED to defer the matter to the next meeting, to enable all Parish Councillors to review all the material to respond comprehensively.
11. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use. The suggestions considered to date had been circulated with papers. It was agreed to leave notices on site to encourage further responses and to retain the item on the agenda as a rolling item.
12. Red Lion Inn
12.1 Insurance To receive submission of the Inn’s current insurance policy for the building, as per the terms of the lease. Consider confirming approval. Cllrs noted receipt with thanks.
12.2 Ground Rent To confirm receipt of peppercorn ground rent on 25/03/25 and confirm next due date as 25/03/26. ACTION: The Clerk to investigate and ask the previous Clerk if there is a formal record.
12.3 Planning for building works To receive information on the intention to submit an application for minor buildings works, ahead Parish Council, as landlord, receiving full plans. The Parish Council look forward to receiving the plans.
13. Free Parish Boat Park To consider potential options to improve management of the area at the end of Dittisham Sailing Club Boat Park. During discussion it was agreed that the ownership of the land would need to be established before progressing any project. It was RESOLVED that Cllr Unnit would undertake further investigation, consulting with interested parties on possible options. It was noted that on publication of the agenda the Clerk had received correspondence from two members of the public to comment on this item, which would be forwarded to Cllr Unnit.
14. Speeding cars in village Consider possibility of radar speed sign in response to road speeds down the hill and past the bus stop. After discussion of options it was RESOLVED to ask Highways to refresh the 20mph sign sited above the Village Hall . It was agreed to investigate 20’s Plenty signs and to consider budgeting for radar speed signs in the 2026/27 budget.
15. Potential new car park To receive an update on discussions between the landowner, the Village Hall and Parish Council. It was reported that a group of people interested in investigating options had met at which discussed on land ownership, feasibility, responsibility and risk had been discussed. It is expected a paper will be produced that will outline the various options discussed. Conversations are ongoing.
16. Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.
To note:
– Temporary Traffic Order – Lee Lane to Capton Cross, Dittisham (TTRO2565893) Cllrs were informed of a road closure in place between 8am – 6pm 18th – 23rd December 2025 to enable Airband’s cabling, splicing and installation of new poles. Lee Lane To Capton Cross, Capton, carriageway & verge are affected. An alternative, signed route will be in place via Hemborough Post Cross.
– Save the date – Annual General Meeting Cllrs are informed of the invitation to join the Devon Communities Together AGM between 1-4pm on 26/05//25. The AGM is preceded with a Rural Transport Poverty expert panel and Q&A.
– Joint Local Plan – have you got land available? Cllrs were informed that the District Council is undertaking a call for sites as part of the preparation of a new South Hams and West Devon Joint Local Plan. The call is for sites suitable for future housing and/or economic development and Gypsy and Traveller sites. Sites must generally be at least 0.25 hectares or capable of supporting 5+ dwellings or 100+ sqm of employment floorspace. The deadline for submissions is 05/12/25.
– Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service- Community Conversations event Cllrs were informed that the next Community Conversations event Our next Community Conversations event will be on 7 November 2025 at 12:00pm and the topic will be focused on winter safety.
– IMPORTANT: Scribe – Price Increase for Dittisham Parish Council Cllrs were informed that annual subscription costs will rise by £8.20 per month to £372. Scribe calculates costs charged to Parish Councils based on its precept demand. Costs are adjusted according to a three-year review cycle. The change will apply from the next renewal after 1st April 2026. Councils are informed now to enable budget planning.
– Devon councils announce proposal for new local government structure for the county The Parish Council was informed by news release of the District Council’s proposal in response to Local Government Reorganisation. The release outlines the 4-5-1 model, that includes: A unitary authority for West Devon, Teignbridge, South Hams and Torbay; A unitary authority for North Devon, Torridge, Mid Devon, East Devon and Exeter; Plymouth remaining a standalone unitary authority.
– Remembrance Sunday service at St George’s Church Cllrs were informed that the service will take place at 10:55 on Sunday November 9. It has been confirmed that the Chairman of the Parish Council will be in attendance, as is customary. A wreath has been purchased.
– #46 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that this ebulletin includes an invitation to one of DALC’s regular free ‘Connect’ events for DALC members. The next event on 5/11 on Zoom: ‘Connect Event: The Changing Roles of Town and Parish Councils Through LGR – Devolution and Partnership Working’. Slides and a recording of the session will also be available via DALC’s website after the event.
– Libraries Unlimited – Annual Report 2024-25 The Parish Council has received a link to Annual Report 2024-25 – Libraries Unlimited also providing a link to how the charity can be supported: Support Us – Libraries Unlimited.
– Invitation_ Devon Local Government Reorganisation – Stakeholder Briefing & Feedback Session Cllrs were invited to a dedicated session for town & parish councils as part of Devon’s Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) process. The session will provide information of the actions taken to date and present the preferred 4-5-1 model, offer a Q&A session and gather feedback on proposals. The session will take place at 6pm on 5/11
– Advance notice – South Hams Community Awards 2026 The Parish Council has been asked to consider potential nominations for the award. The Chairman of the District Council and a panel of judges are looking for nominations for people who make a difference in the community, in the following categories: Young Persons Award (for under 18s); Community Champion Award (for over 18s); Community Organisation Award; Climate and Biodiversity Champion Award (individual or group). A link to the online nomination form when nominations open and all nominations will need to be submitted by end of January 2026.
– #47 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs are informed that this ebulletin encourages responses to the draft Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) that sets out a shared vision for restoring Devon’s wildlife and natural habitats. The Strategy identifies where and how we can work together to protect and enhance nature, from river catchments and woodlands to coastlines and urban green spaces. Public consultation runs until 05/11/25. naturerecoverydevon.org.uk The bulletin advertises the next Connect Event at 1pm on 11/11/25 called ‘All Things Traffic’ that provides an opportunity to understand the policy and processes which shape how we manage traffic on our highways and the associated infrastructure such as white lines and signs.
To consider
– Opps! Your profile on aDoddle.org is now Turquoise – Action Needed The Parish Council has received notification that the Dittisham Parish Habitat Plan has not been reviewed or updated for 6 months on the aDoddle website, and has therefore been colour coded as potentially out of date. ACTION: The Clerk to update the password and forward to Cllr Neale.
– Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Precept Survey Local residents and businesses are asked to respond to a five-minute form asks how people feel about the service they receive, and will influence the amount the Service receives from council tax in 2026/27. The Parish Council is asked to help by sharing this information with communities through a poster provided, sharing @dsfireupdates social media posts and completing the survey before 3 December. Correspondence was noted.
– Skip on the Ham Car Park The Parish Council was asked to consider a request to put a skip in a space on The Ham car park for one day only to facilitate moving building waste from Binham Cottage. This is in response to the understanding that vehicular access across the Ham is generally not possible. Use of the car parking space by the skip will be paid for on receipt of an invoice. The Member of Public applying carries out joinery and building work in Dittisham and has Public Liability Insurance in place. It was RESOLVED that siting the skip would be permitted. It was agreed that the applicant be charged prorata for the number of days that the skip is on site and invoiced accordingly.
17. Financial Matters
17.1 2026/27 Budget for councillors to discuss projects that would require additional/increase in funding within the next financial year. Cllrs agreed to investigate costs for the purchase of a radar speed sign, expecting this to cost approximately £6000, to consider allocation of £3500 towards the cost of producing a Neighbourhood Plan and consider creation of a budget line in preparation of any costs associated to the impact of Local Government Reorganisation. It was proposed that the Parish Council establish an earmarked reserve of approximately £5000 to cover any legal costs. It was noted that the Parish Council may wish to increase amount of general reserves in preparation. .
17.2 Receipts and Payments between meetings The following receipts and payments were noted:
– Income from South Hams District Council Invoices 18 and 21 Mobile app car park income 2024/25 Quarter 4 and 2025/26 Quarter 1 at £15745.43 plus £3149.07 VAT = £18,894.50
– Payment 2510_15 to Lloyds bank for banking fees = £4.75 no VAT
– Payment 2510_14 to SLarcombe Inv 518 for Site visit on 6/10/25. Marking out posts and looking at modifications at the top of the steps to the handrail. (Jubilee Steps) = £70 no VAT
17.3 November Payments It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:
– Payment 2511_1 to Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee Inv 25/31 Room hire in 2025/26 Q1 and Q2 at £240 plus £48 VAT = £288
– Payment 2511_2 to Starboard Systems Limited INV-13146 Scribe Accounts renewal (2026) at £6 plus £54.72 VAT = £328.32
– Payment 2511_3 to CRadford October Clerk Salary = £877.41 no VAT
– Payment 2511_4 Level Car Park Loan Repayment = £5000 no VAT
– Payment 2511_5 to RBond for reimbursement: Rememberence Wreath (Amazon) at £16.66 plus £3.33 VAT = £19.99
– Payment 2511_6 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £286.16 no VAT
– Payment 2511_7 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Sept) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2511_8 Pension contributions on Clerk’s Oct Salary = £39.61 no VAT
– Payment 2511_9 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Oct at 12EUR per month (£10.49). Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Oct at £4.90 per month at £14.57 plus £0.82 VAT = £15.39
– Payment 2511_11 to ARCCAS for expected invoice for grounds maintenance services carried out during October as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600
– It was agreed to query invoice Inv 165 for grounds maintenance services carried out during October (Steps) before payment. It was commented that works to clear the steps seemed to appear in the main contract from October – December and to therefore contact the contractor for clarification of the arrangement.
18. Next Meeting: It was confirmed the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday December 3 2025 at 7:00 pm. It was noted that the Dittisham Village Hall would not be available and therefore to make enquiries to book the Cornworthy Village Hall.
Download a PDF of the November 2025 monthly meeting minutes here (PDF)
