Mar 1, 2024 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded here: MN_2024 February DPC Draft Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 7 February 2024 at 7:00 p.m.
a. Public Forum
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Replacement of Guttering on the Village Bus Shelter
A plan was agreed for the guttering to installed.
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Letter from a Resident about the proposal to Register The Red Lion Inn as an Asset of Community Value
The letter was read out as requested by the Resident. It was agreed that the Chair will respond with an offer to meet and to advise that a decision has been made to submit an application.
Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Neale, Tucker, and Unitt were present as was DCC Cllr Hawkins, A Thom (Clerk). One member of the public was present in the room during the open forum and no-one joined over Zoom. Cllr Tucker left during the meeting.
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Apologies:
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Hodge and SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Declaration of Interests
None declared.
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Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 3 January 2024.
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Community Reports
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South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Devon County Council Councillor
DCC Cllr Hawkins reported that he has been contacted about a proposal for new housing near Lapthorne Dip and has referred the resident to the standard planning channels. It was noted that DPC has also been contacted and the resident invited to speak to a meeting of the PC. There is a consultation about the proposed devolution of DCC and Torbay Councils. Cllr Hawkins advised viewing the consultation details on the government webpage. 3,000 objections to the proposal for parking meters in Dartmouth were delivered to County Hall, and an FOI request has been made to view consultation responses. The Dartmouth Youth Club is operating again, with rollerblading on Friday night. The Youth Club is keen to take over the current RNLI premises in Coronation Park when the RNLI moves to a new site in about 12 months. The foodbank is operating a warm hub and has started to sell sanitary items at cost, which may evolve into a community pantry service.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
To Reports showed a total balance of £86,329.94 and an unearmarked general fund of £31,810.74.
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Payments
It was resolved authorised the following payments:
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Village Hall Hire, December 23 and Jan 24, £60.00
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Sutcliffe flat seat swing chains, £135.00
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Clerk Expenses Reimbursement January £32.57
The payment decisions made since the last monthly meeting were noted:
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South West Water, The Quay Tap Sep – Dec 2023, £33.29
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Annual Playground Inspection booked, £155.00+VAT
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Car Park Attendant October-December 2023, £500.00
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- NatWest Interest Bearing Accounts
It was resolved to place £25,000 (approximately equivalent to earmarked replacement reserve funds) in a NatWest 95 day notice interest bearing account and £15,000 in a 35 day notice account.
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- Annual Risk Review
It was noted that the annual review of the Register and statement of Internal Control is taking place.
Decisions regarding DPC’s Tree inspections and additional involvement in defibrillator checks require further consideration and were deferred to the next meeting. It was resolved that the Clerk and Cllr Neale would follow up formal inspection of Old Chapel Burial Ground memorials.
- SHDC Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
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3578/23/CLP Yew Tree Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX. Certificate of lawfulness for proposed single storey outbuilding. Withdrawn.
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3557/23/VAR Yew Tree Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX. Application for variation of conditions 2 (approved drawings) & 5(privacy screen) of planning consent 3296/22/HHO. Conditional Approval
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3797/23/ARC Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham, TQ6 0JB. Application for retrospective approval of details reserved by conditions 2 (Landscaping Scheme), 3 (Hut Finishes/Treatments), 7 (Lighting Scheme) and 10 (LEMP) of planning consent 2637/23/VAR. Discharge of Conditions – Split Decision.
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0001/24/ARC Yew Tree Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 9 (Solar Panels) of planning consent 3557/23/VAR. Discharge of Condition Approved
- New planning applications
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0348/24/ARC Dittisham Hideaway, Dittisham, TQ6 0JB. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 7 (Lighting Scheme) of planning consent 2637/23/VAR.
The details of the application were discussed. No comment is being made to SHDC.
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0366/24/ARC Spindlewood, Higher Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0HT. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 5 (Timber Cladding), 9 (External Lighting), 18 (Roof Slate), 19 (Hard Landscaping) & 20 (Ducts, Flues, Rainwater Goods, Vents & External Attachments) of planning consent 2455/21/FUL.
The details of the application were discussed. No comment is being made to SHDC.
- New tree applications
- 4061/23/TCA Mulberry House, Dittisham, Dartmouth, TQ6 0ER . T1 – T4: Apple trees – remove. T5: Holly – remove. T6: Mulberry – lateral crown reduction of up to 1m on NE and NW sides, crown reduction on upper canopy of up to 50cm. T7 – T9: Birch – remove.
Comments closed 24 January. Assessed. No comment submitted by DPC.
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Consultations
It was resolved to respond about recording the salt marsh area north of The Ham car park.
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
No new comments made on the process.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Village Road-marking Repainting
The Report on the maintenance work carried out in 2023 was noted.
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Communications
It was resolved to agree the Proposal for the WG Cllrs produce a monthly article on topical activities for the Parish Mag as per the report. Cllrs were asked to check that their entries on the Parish website are current.
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Maintenance
It was resolved to agree the Proposal to remove the older bench from near the toilet block on The Ham.
It was resolved pay the contractor as quoted to replace all slats on another bench because the bench is considered dangerous. It was resolved confirm satisfactory completion of 2023 Grounds Maintenance Contract, that an invoice may be paid, and to thank the contractors for the work done.
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Installation of Railing at Little Orchard Access Steps
The proposed quote document was agreed.
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Installation of Defibrillators
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DPC is awaiting a revised agreement with SHDC, to give DPC permission to install a defibrillator on The Ham Toilet Block. The Clerk was asked to consult with SHDC regarding action necessary regarding collection of rent.
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DPC is not applying for Department of Health & Social Care Community Defibrillator match funding Scheme to install a Mindray C1A defibrillator in Capton. It was resolved to cost an alternative defibrillator, to confirm there is an electricity supply to the phone box, and to start to consider fund raising including whether the Parish of Dittisham Charity might support.
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Nominations to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace
It was resolved to nominate Cllr Tucker to go into the Devon draw to attend the Garden Party in recognition of his long and excellent service to the Parish Council.
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Parish Lengthsman Report
The Lengthsman’s Report and invoice of 6/2/24 were noted. The item was deferred to the March meeting.
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Car Park Attendant’s Temporary Absence
The advance notice of two weeks absence during the quiet season was noted.
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Support of ‘The Melt’ floating art project
It was resolved to make a £50 donation and to help to publicise the event.
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Correspondence:
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Email from Resident, 7/1/24, Concern about water run-off due to earthworks.
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Email from Resident, 26/1/24, Request for a public meeting to inform residents about ACV before proceeding.
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Devon Air Ambulance Landing Sites, Visit to move box on 14 February 2024.
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D-Day 80 Commemoration on 6 June 2024, https://www.d-day80beacons.co.uk/
The meeting was told that the Beacon is in the process of being replaced using local materials and it won’t be ready. There are commemoration suggestions in the online guide. This will be a future item if requested.
It was noted that thermal imaging cameras can be borrowed from SHDC and Sustainable South Hams is providing training on their use.
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SHDC, 31/1/24, Advance notice of public consultation on Public Space Protection Orders.
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Devolution Deal for Devon. Proposals being considered DCC and Torbay Council Cabinets.
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Dittisham Charity’s AGM will take place on 8/2/24 at 2.30 pm.
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Annual Parish Meeting
The arrangement for the Meeting on 17 April were confirmed including a resolution to authorise a refreshments budget of up to £80.
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Next Meeting
It was noted that the next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 6 March 2024 at 7:00 pm.
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Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following item(s) because of the confidential nature of the business.
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Quotes for works to benches on The Ham
It was resolved to accept the quote to remove the bench from next to the toilet block.
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DPC’s responsibilities as the owner of a Freehold.
A plan was made on actions to take in accordance with and to manage DPC’s Freehold responsibilities and liabilities and agreed by resolution.
The meeting ended at 21:40
Jan 9, 2024 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded here: MN_2024 January DPC Draft Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 3 January 2024 at 7:00p.m.
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Public Forum
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a. Parish Lengthsman
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The Parish Council’s contractor outlined the work they have recently done on keeping road drainage clear and suggested using some of the DCC grant to clear the drainage near the Capton turning. Two problems with the Kingston road were raised by Cllrs, the poor quality of the surface because edges have now eroded and a section of drainage of the road possibly blocked by the landowner, and these will be followed up by DPC with DCC.
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Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Hodge, Lloyd, Neale,, and Unitt, and DCC Cllr Hawkins were present, as were A Thom (Clerk). One member of the public was present in the room during the open forum and no-one attended over Zoom.
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Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Tucker and SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Declaration of Interests
Cllr Hodge declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in the works to The Ham retaining wall.
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Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 6 December 2024.
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Community Reports
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South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of Cllr McKay.
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Devon County Council Councillor
DCC Cllr Hawkins reported that DCC will receive £6.5 million annually from former HS2 funds. A new DCC trial might assist with the completion of a project to install a railing on Jubilees Steps. Cllr Hawkins has approved the grant to DPC for the trial clean of the slippery path from Lower Street to Dittisham Mill Creek. Cllr Hawkins has attended two meetings with Stagecoach regarding issues with the buses. Please let Cllr Hawkins know if you have problems. Cllr Hawkins has questioned the closing of the Fusion Leisure Centre in Dartmouth on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. The generous donations from Dittisham residents to the Foodbank are much appreciated. An allocation of over £2,000 was made to families who receive free school meals or child tax credits, £10 per primary school age child, which will be repeated later in the year. The Youth Group goes from strength to strength and will be taking children to the pantomime in Plymouth again soon. There is a planning application for a Premier Inn near Venn Lane.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
The Financial Reports were noted.
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Payments
It was resolved authorise the following payments:
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Landscape Construction & Design, Trial Clean of Slippery Path, £492.00
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Clerk, November expenses reimbursement, £109.70
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JHB UK Ltd, Line repainting, £900.00
Cllr Hodge left the meeting.
It was resolved authorise the following payment:
Cllr Hodge returned to the meeting
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Payment since December meeting
The following payment was noted.
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Receipts
The receipt of the grant for the trial clean of the slippery path was noted.
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2024/25 Budget and Precept Demand
It was resolved to approve the 2024/25 Budget as circulated with the following changes: to increase the Precept by £2,000 to £16,000 and not to move sick-leave liability funds out of the relevant reserve. There will be a reduction in the unearmarked general fund. This approach best recognises the financial judgement made by DPC.
- SHDC Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
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3554/23/ARC Yew Tree Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 4 (Facing Materials for Retaining Wall) of planning consent 3296/22/HHO. Discharge of Condition Approved.
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2536/23/FUL Fairholme, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS . New 3 bed dwelling & detached garden store with associated carparking & landscaping. Withdrawn.
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2209/23/FUL Herongate, Lower Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0HY. Conversion & extension of boathouse for short term holiday let(resubmission of 3628/22/FUL). Withdrawn.
- New planning applications
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4019/23/NMM The Old Rectory Rectory Lane Dittisham TQ6 0HD. Non Material Minor Amendment for addition of velux roof light to first floor to match existing.
Support (by unanimous resolution).
- New tree applications
- 3830/23/TCA Mill Creek Cottage, Lower Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0HY. T1-T6: Leylandii/fir trees – Fell trees due to them being vigorous growers & are taking the light from other recently planted trees that are trying to establish themselves, originally planted to quickly establish privacy from neighbours & are no longer required & particularly so if other indigenous trees & shrubs are allowed to grow, these trees kill the ground underneath them & prevent anything else from getting established, are unattractive & overpowering, surrounding deciduous trees/plants would provide a much better vista, more in keeping with the local countryside.
Support (by unanimous resolution).
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Consultations
The following consultations were noted. No DPC comment made. Cllrs may comment individually.
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Peninsula Transport, Draft Transport Strategy. Closes 5/2/24.
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South Devon Rural Housing Association, Proposed Merger with Places for People Group. Closes 7/2/24
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
The process to obtain further information or arrange a site visit was approved as per the Report with the addition that there must be a minimum of two attendees, and ideally three or more attendees.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Parish Emergency Plan
A project to create a new Plan was agreed in principle subject to consultation with Cllr Tucker. Proposed group members are Cllrs Tucker, Unitt, Green, Lloyd, and one member of the public.
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Maintenance Working Group
The Report on the trial clean of Slippery Lane was noted. The duration of the outcome will be monitored at least monthly.
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Ham Events
It was resolved unanimously to approve the request from South West Gaffers to hire The Ham 16-19 August 2024. DPC will move the picnic tables prior to the event.
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DPC Planning Day
The Report on the successful day was received. The proposed deletions from the Projects list were confirmed with the exception of three Council Management tasks relating to cyberinsurance, annual audit, and information management.
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Registration of The Red Lion Inn with SHDC as an Asset of Community Value
It was resolved that a public meeting is not required and to make an application for registration of The Red Lion Inn as an asset of community value. It was resolved to perform due diligence regarding DPC’s freehold responsibilities prior to submitting the application. Cllrs Green and Golding will report to the 7 February meeting of DPC.
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Maintenance of The Ham Retaining Wall
The discussion to plan further work required was deferred to the closed part of the Meeting.
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Memorial Benches Installed on The Ham
It was commented that the new memorial bench installed near toilet block is an exemplary installation. The Clerk will write to the requestor and their installer to thank them.
The inaction by the requestor to make the modifications agreed on 23 November 2023 to the installation of the memorial bench they have installed next to the River Dart was discussed. The Clerk was asked to request the completion of the agreed actions as soon as possible and also to obtain a quote for DPC to rectify the installation of the bench for the 7 February meeting.
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Correspondence:
The following correspondence was noted:
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Email from Resident, 4/12/23, Grateful thanks for cleaning the slippery path
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South Devon National Landscapes, South Devon AONB renamed South Devon National Landscapes
The Clerk was asked to invite SDNL to the next Annual Parish Meeting, on Wednesday 17 April 2024.
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DALC, Notice of increase in Annual Fee
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19/12/23, Resident, Enquiry about roadworks advertised 2-3 Jan. Investigated approved date 17-19 Jan. Final works date TBC
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19/12/23, DCT, Notice of Devon Community Resilience Forum conference 22 March 2024
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5/12/23, DPC asked SHDC to investigate groundworks
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Next Meeting
It was confirmed that next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 7 February 2023 at 7:00 pm.
Cllr Hodge left the meeting.
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Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act, to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following item because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
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The Ham Retaining Wall
It was resolved unanimously to approve a proposal for work to install a length of concrete ledge, filling in the gap in the ledge which is closest to the car park where the wall is becomingly increasingly undermined, and to make good gaps between new footing and stone work in the wall as required in the same area (estimate £1,100 and a £250 contingency respectively). The aim is to do the work as soon as tides permit.
Dec 19, 2023 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded here: MN_2023 December DPC Approved Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 6 December 2023 at 7:00p.m.
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Public Forum
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a. South Devon Rural Housing Association
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The Chief Executive of SDRHA spoke to the meeting and answered questions. SDRHA needs to decide whether to spend approximately £50,000 on works required to a property in the village or alternatively to sell that property and use the funds elsewhere. A similar property was advertised recently. There were no applicants from the Parish.
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Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Hodge, Lloyd, Neale, and Unitt, SHDC Cllr McKay, and were present, as were A Thom (Clerk). One members of the public was present in the room during the open forum and one over Zoom.
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Apologies
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Apologies for absence were received from Parish Cllr Tucker and DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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Declaration of Interests
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Cllr Golding declared an Other Registerable Interest in the Yew Tree Cottage planning application, Cllr Hodge declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in works to The Ham retaining wall, and Cllr Nightingale declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in the proposal to register The Red Lion Inn as an asset of community value.
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Approval of Minutes
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It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 1 November 2023.
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Community Reports
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South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC Cllr McKay reported that SHDC is working on its Council Plan. Housing is a priority. There is a South Hams Housing Officer. They plan to assist CLTs: including provision of a template of support and help to broker with housing associations when delivering housing.
SHDC is has acquired land at South Brent for a community forest. It will generate income. SHDC will be able to sell carbon offsets. Investment in Elm Community Energy is under consideration.
The University of Western England has produced a report on the impact of climate change on the South Hams. Part one has been provided and part two, regarding sea level and flooding, will follow. South Hams will have milder winters with more rainfall and hot dry summers – with an effect on farming and river flows and requiring water conservation and rainwater harvesting. SHDC needs an agriculture/food Officer in Cllr McKay’s view. It has a Marine Officer.
The waste system seems to be working well.
The provision of a limited and cheap private dentistry offer in Dartmouth is being discussed.
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Devon County Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
The Financial Reports were noted. They showed an unearmarked general fund of £34,351.24 and a total balance of £90,984.88 on 1 December. The creation of a summary Risk Register and a summary notification of significant variances of the budget were proposed by Cllrs.
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Payments
It was unanimously resolved to approve the following payments:
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Scribe, Accounting Software Annual, £328.32
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Tindle Newspapers, Contract Advert, £95.04
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Sportsman’s Arms, DPC Planning Day refreshments, £116.50
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Dittisham Village Hall, Hire September to November, £111.00
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Clerk, November expenses reimbursement, £29.76
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23/24 Salary Award
The Award was noted and it will now be implemented in accordance with the contract.
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Draft Budget 2024/25
The draft budget was discussed. The Clerk said that there are insufficient funds available in the draft budget for planned standard replacement reserve allocations. The draft budget will next be examined in more detail by the Finance Working Group, for discussion by the 3 January meeting of DPC, and if necessary an extraordinary meeting can be held later in January to finalise.
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SHDC Planning Decisions
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The following decisions were noted.
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2638/23/FUL Dittisham Hideaway Treehouses Shepherds Lodges & Airstream Dittisham TQ6 0JB. Renovation & extension of existing gravel forest track (retrospective). Conditional Approval.
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2786/23/CLB Mill Creek Cottage Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Certificate of lawfulness for proposed works to a Listed Building comprising installation of chimney pot(s). Cert of Lawfulness (Proposed) Certified.
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2921/23/VAR Laburnum Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for variation of condition 1 (approved drawing) of planning consent 0479/19/VAR. Conditional Approval.
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New planning applications
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3557/23/VAR Yew Tree Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for variation of conditions 2 (approved drawings) & 5 (privacy screen) of planning consent 3296/22/HHO.
Cllr Golding described the application and relevant planning policy before leaving the room.
DPC resolved to comment as follows:
a. Support – Privacy screen wall. Councillors noted that the proposed privacy screen wall appears to meet the 1.7 metre requirement set by SHDC and therefore support this approach.
b. Object – Proposed glazed gable windows and Juliette balcony. Councillors consider that these create increased light pollution, are associated with the possibility of overlooking, and do not meet the requirement to conserve or enhance the character of the Conservation Area.
c. Object – Proposed solar PV panels on the roof. Councillors object to the visual impact on the AONB and the Conservation Area. It is requested that tiles or integrated panels are used.
DPC’s standard light pollution comment will be made.
DPC will also reply to SHDC noting that in examining this application an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness for the use of a garden shed on the rear of the property as a dwelling was noted. DPC noted that there appears to be no supporting evidence for this assertion and that the planning impact, if it was to be approved, would be to allow the construction of an ancillary dwelling within Permitted Development parameters, with associated potential impact on the character of the Conservation Area and the AONB.
Cllr Golding returned to the room.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Maintenance
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Consultations
No DPC comment made. Cllrs and members of the public may comment individually.
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
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Cllr Neale suggested making arrangements for a site meeting or pre-meeting discussion of applications which meet DPC’s ‘major’ application criteria.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Health
The Dartmouth PPG meeting report was noted. Cllrs Nightingale and Hodge are pursuing collaboration with other organisations regarding the current Government policy to fund the provision of NHS dentistry to only half of the population and with no system to target those most in need. Information about the new NHS app will be shared on Facebook.
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Parish Emergency Plan
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The project to create a new Plan was deferred.
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Maintenance of The Ham Retaining Wall
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The Clerk reported that the repair of one area of the wall on the southern end of the wall is complete, there has been further deterioration of the undermining of the longest section of the wall without a concrete ledge which is vulnerable to winter easterly weather, and a project about repairing this latter section will be progressed as soon as possible.
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Reinstatement of the surface The Ham Car Park
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Liaison is ongoing to agree action to reinstate the surface.
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Memorial Bench Installed
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The bench installed in November near the River Dart was noted. The installer has agreed to modify the installation and the work remains pending.
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Registration of The Red Lion Inn with SHDC as an Asset of Community Value
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It was resolved to address this matter in the 3 January meeting of DPC: to decide if a public meeting is required and who to invite or to make an application to SHDC for registration.
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Parish Lengthsman Report
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The item to note the report and advise of DCC ‘infrastructure’ grant work required was deferred.
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Correspondence:
The following correspondence was noted:
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1/11/23 Resident, Complaint – That vegetation cut back at southern end of Ham is dangerous.
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7/11/23 Resident, Request for clearing of weeds next to the Church wall
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16/11/23 SHDC, Planning training town and parish councils Wednesday, 24 January (4.00pm-7.00pm), On-line
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24/11/23, Resident, Dittisham Plum Project, Request for records about location of Dittisham Plum trees in the Parish
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Next Meeting
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The next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 3 January 2024 at 7:00p.m.
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Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act, to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following items because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
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2023/27 Grounds Maintenance Contract
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It was unanimously resolved to accept the least costly quote of £3,511.31 for the next grounds maintenance contract.
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Maintenance of hedge on Ham Lane next to Riverside House
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It was unanimously resolved to accept the least costly quote of £590.
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2023/24 Internal Auditor
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It was unanimously resolved to accept the least costly quote of £150.
The meeting closed at 10:29.
Nov 23, 2023 | Minutes
The approved minutes can be read below or downloaded here: MN_2023 October 04 DPC Approved Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 October 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
Public Forum
a. Parking on the Foreshore next to The Ham Car Park
A member of the public advised the meeting that they have observed frequent parking on the foreshore next to The Ham Car Park and that this takes place when there are plenty of spaces free in the car parking area.
The Clerk will research the process to enforce in this location and report to DPC.
b. Learning from recent Fire on Manor Street
A member of the public asked to attend the visit to the Dartmouth Fire Station to view the service and receive feedback on the Fire Service’s response to the recent Fire on Manor Street. They asked DPC to make a Freedom of Information request to view the Fire Service’s Report.
Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Hodge, Lloyd, Neale, Tucker, and Unitt were present, as were A Thom (Clerk), SHDC Cllr McKay, and three members of the public.
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Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Green and DCC Hawkins.
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Declaration of Interests
None declared.
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Invitation to visit the Dartmouth Fire Station
This item was moved up the Agenda at the Chair’s discretion.
Cllrs Lloyd, Bond, and Unitt, and SHDC Cllr McKay will attend the visit to the Dartmouth Fire Station to receive feedback about the recent incident in Dittisham. A proposed meeting date was agreed. Members of the public representing more difficult to access locations in the Parish will be invited.
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Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 6 September 2023.
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Community Reports
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Devon County Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC Cllr McKay reported that SHDC is currently consulting on its Corporate Plan. The Plan contains high level goals. There is a focus on affordable housing. SHDC is looking at the creation of an umbrella Community Land Trust to help to progress projects. They are not affected by Right to Buy and are used in Cornwall. SHDC is looking at how it can improve planning enforcement. Climate change and biodiversity are a priority. A symposium is being organised for November – with invitations within and outside the District. SHDC is considering food distribution and production with a view to shortening the supply chain and challenging supermarkets.
Funds are available for composting projects. Sustainable South Hams’ proposal has been accepted and it will coordinate. The problem with street cleaning is being investigated and the effectiveness of street sweepers being looked at, with another piece of kit purchased.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
It was resolved to approve the Reports which showed a total balance of £94,898.70 and unearmarked general fund of £38,265.06.
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Payments & Receipts
It was resolved to authorise the following payments:
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Level Car Park loan annual repayment, £5,000
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Car Park Attendant, July-September, £500
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Clerk, Expenses reimbursement, £63.76
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South West Water, Quay tap July-September, £26.73
The receipt of the second Precept instalment, £7,000, was noted.
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- 22/23 Audit
The Report from the External Auditor was considered. There are two except for matters raised: the restating of the 21/22 AGAR figures did not include reversal of 2020/21 creditors, and that creditors and debtors have been incorrectly included in the bank reconciliation.
DPC has existing advice that the car park income collected by SHDC on DPC’s behalf SHDC is not a debtor. DPC will consider further how to present the 23/24 accounts to the external auditor. DPC will review whether there is sufficient benefit from presenting the accounts on an Income and Expenditure basis to justify the additional complexity.
It was resolved to approve the report and to note the actions being taken to respond to it.
- New planning applications
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2638/23/FUL Dittisham Hideaway Treehouses, Shepherds Lodges & Airstream, Dittisham, TQ6 0JB. Renovation & extension of existing gravel forest track (retrospective)
It was resolved respond that DPC is concerned about the potential effect on the wildlife, especially when assessment only possible after the development has been carried out, and to note that this is the second recent retrospective planning application. DPC is would like to see the due planning process followed.
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2921/23/VAR Laburnum Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX. Application for variation of condition 1 (approved drawing) of planning consent 0479/19/VAR.
DPC is not able to comment on the application. The necessary drawing(s) of the proposal have not been provided on the planning website. They were requested on 18 September and again since then. DPC will respond to request that the application be re-advertised because the proposal has not been advertised in accordance with the legal requirements.
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2786/23/CLB Mill Creek Cottage Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Certificate of lawfulness for proposed works to a Listed Building comprising installation of chimney pot(s).
For information.
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2965/23/PDM Barn At Sx 840 529, Capton. Application to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed change of use of agricultural buildings/barns to 4No dwelling houses (class C3) & for associated development (Class Q (a+b)).
For information.
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
The initial three categories can be reduced to two – Minor and Major. The working copy of the Agenda will note the category. If a second retrospective application is received from same source that will trigger closer examination.
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Consultations
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SHDC, Draft Corporate Strategy, Closes Monday 23 October.
Councillors can comment individually.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Task & Finish Group for the Review of the Use of The Ham Policy
The TAFG report, regarding private residences’ access over The Ham, charging for use of the car park as a site compound, hire deposits, & parking on the foreshore, and the Clerk’s reports were considered.
It was agreed that the matter of granting specific permission to private residences for vehicles to have access over The Ham required further consideration.
The Clerk will report to South West Water potential issues with its outfall pipe.
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Maintenance Working Group
The MWG’s report & the Clerk’s on the management of the private accesses to The Ham were noted. The Clerk will discuss with owners of Little Orchard their access. It was resolved add Cllr Unitt to the MWG.
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Village Hall Management Committee
The Annual Premises Report provided by the VHMC was noted.
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DALC Conference
Due to the lateness of the hour it was agreed that written report from Cllrs Nightingale and Hodge would be circulated.
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Registration of The Red Lion Inn as an Asset of Community Value
Questionnaires are available on-line and have been delivered in the Parish and to East Cornworthy because its residents use The Red Lion Inn. Whether it is appropriate to submit an application to SHDC to register The Red Lion Inn as an asset of community value will be dependent on the responses received.
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Correspondence
The following correspondence was noted:
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A Mangall MP, invitation Open meeting SWW, Thursday 19th October @ 17:30 Dartmouth
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Mayor of Totnes to Chair, Civic Service, & Civic Sunday Lunch, 22/10/23, RSVP 12th October
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18/9/23 SHDC Cllr McKay & DCC regarding local flooding. Responded re local status and prevention measures.
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19/9/23 Email from a resident, Request to bring Dart 10K back into Dittisham. Advised not feasible due to lack of event parking.
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15/09/23, Sent to South Devon Rural Housing Association, Long-term Vacant Housing in Dittisham.
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11/9/23, Email How to stop people parking on the foreshore next to Ham Car Park
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Electrical Safety Fund grants scheme for local projects, closes 22 October 2023
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Farming Community Network, request for support & information services available
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Next Meeting
The next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be on 1 November 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
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Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act, to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following items because of the confidential and employment nature of the business respectively.
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Complaint
The Parish Council made a careful consideration of the factors raised by the complainant. The Clerk will respond.
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Personnel Subcommittee
It was resolved unanimously to re-evaluate the role into the LC2 above substantive range and to increase the Clerk’s pay point backdated to April 2023.
Nov 21, 2023 | Minutes
The draft minutes can be downloaded here or read below: MN_2023 November DPC Draft Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 1 November 2023 at 7:00 p.m.
Public Forum
a. 2536/23/FUL Fairholme Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS.
The applicant described the application and advised that the application has neighbours’ support.
Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Hodge, and Tucker and were present, as were A Thom (Clerk), three members of the public in the room and four over Zoom (including Cllr Neale).
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Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Parish Cllrs Golding, Green, Lloyd, Neale, and Unitt, SHDC Cllr McKay, and DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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Declaration of Interests
Cllr Nightingale declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in the Red Lion Inn Asset of Community Value item on the Agenda.
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Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 4 October 2023.
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Community Reports
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South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Devon County Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
It was resolved to approve the financial reports.
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Payments
It was resolved to approve the following payments:
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Metric, Ticket rolls (2), £118.49
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DALC, Conference, two attendees, £108.00
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Clerk, Expenses Reimbursement October, £146.79
The payment made since the last monthly meeting was noted:
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Registration of The Red Lion Inn with SHDC as an Asset of Community Value
Cllr Nightingale left the meeting.
Cllrs noted survey responses received. Further information was requested about existing assets of community value and the process, for consideration by the December meeting. The holding of a public meeting was discussed, in December or January as appropriate for maximum attendance, and for the relevant SHDC Officer to be invited.
Cllr Nightingale returned to the meeting.
- SHDC Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
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2965/23/PDM Barn At Sx 840 529 CaptonApplication to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed change of use of agricultural buildings/barns to 4No dwellinghouses (class C3) & for associated development (Class Q (a+b)). Prior Approval Given.
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2637/23/VAR Dittisham Hideaway Dittisham TQ6 0JB. Variation of conditions 1 (Approved Drawings) 2 (Landscaping Scheme), 3 (Finishes/Treatment to huts), 4 (Surface WaterManagement Scheme), 7 (Lighting), 9 (Ecological report & LEMP), 10 (Sewage Disposal) and 11 (DEV32) of planning consent 0546/21/FUL. Conditional Approval.
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2812/23/TCA Langscott Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. T1 Judas tree – fell and replace – tree splits off into multi-stems from just above ground level & decay is present within this union. No Objection Raised.
- New planning applications
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2536/23/FUL Fairholme Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. New 3 bed dwelling & detached garden store with associated car parking & landscaping.
Support (by unanimous resolution) with the following provisions: DPC’s comment about the reduction of light pollution will be made, request and amendment to the Construction Management Plan such that deliveries are not made during the School buses’ arrival and departure times, and to request clarity regarding whether the development is located in the countryside – if this is the case SHDC previously applied a ‘Devon clause’.
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3554/23/ARC Yew Tree Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 4 (Facing Materials for Retaining Wall) of planning consent 3296/22/HHO.
Support (by unanimous resolution).
- Consultations
The following consultations were noted:
Feedback was noted that would be really helpful if SHDC received feedback from residents about dogs on leads; dog fouling and any issues that you may have.
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SHDC Council Tax Reduction Scheme Review. Closes 28/11/23
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Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Level of Council Tax contribution. Closes 30/11/23.
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
The Clerk will note major or minor on the draft Agenda and also watermark the draft accordingly.
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Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups & External Forums
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Maintenance
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Grounds Maintenance Contract: The proposed specifications have been circulated. It was agreed that the Clerk will finalise final edits in consultation with the MWG Councillors, the contract will be advertised, including in the Dartmouth Chronicle, with quotes to be provided to the December meeting of the Parish Council. The term will be an initial one year and an optional extension of three years.
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DCC has advised that based on existing evidence it is not able to agree to install or maintain a railing on the Jubilee Steps. A community project to collect further information was suggested. A meeting with DCC Cllr Hawkins and the DCC Neighbourhood Officer to view and walk down the Steps will be requested.
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It was resolved to authorise for the DCC recommended contractor to clean the slippery path paying their hourly rate provided and the cost to hire equipment up to the £500 grant from DCC Cllr Hawkins. Co-ordination with the possible application of tape will be necessary.
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Health
It was resolved to to seek collaboration with other organisations regarding querying the national dentistry policy and to then write again to MP Anthony Mangnall.
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Car Parks
DPC will carry out a review of DPC Car Park Charges for discussion by the December meeting.
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DPC Planning Day
It was resolved to authorise a budget of up to £180 for the 2023 DPC Cllrs Planning Day.
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Finance
It was resolved to open interest bearing accounts with NatWest (35 day and 95 day notice accounts) and Lloyds (instant access account), and to transfer £5,000 from NatWest to Lloyds accounts.
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Management of Private Accesses to the Ham and Hedge on Ham Lane
It was unanimously resolved to write to all affected residences about DPC’s risk management of the accesses from private residences to The Ham and that quotes will be obtained for DPC to carry out maintenance of the hedge next to Riverside House.
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Dittisham Sailing Club Permits for The Ham Car Park
It was unanimously resolved that the Ham Car Park Permits arrangement with the Dittisham Sailing Club will continue for the 24/25 permits.
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DPC Subscription Emails
It was unanimously resolved that that Councillors will subscribe individually to subscriptions of interest to them, in place of the existing system of the emails being forwarded.
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DPC Laptop Update and Back up
The Report was noted. In response to an intermittent problem with the laptop failing to boot up its software and BIOS have been updated and an external hard drive purchased to provide a second backup. It was unanimously resolved to support.
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Dementia Friendly Parish
Brixton Parish Council will be invited to speak to the next Annual Parish Meeting on Wednesday 17 April 2024 starting at 7:00 pm.
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Remembrance Service on Sunday 12 November
The arrangement for Parish Council’s representative at the Service were confirmed and it was resolved to approve a donation of £50 to the Royal British Legion.
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Correspondence
The following correspondence was noted:
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Sent to SWW, 9/10/23, Request to maintain & monitor sewage outfall infrastructure on the beach
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Sent to Friends of the Dart, 20/10/23, Description of the ownership and operation of The Ham
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11/10/23 to Builders, Discussion about minimising the impact of the project’s builders’ vans
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12/10/23, To DPC Chair, Questionnaire regarding proposal register The Red Lion Inn as an ACV
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SHDC, Residents Permits Reminder Emails system is operating correctly. Check spam folder.
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SHDC, Invitation to advertise Christmas events in its website, social media and print campaigns
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West Dart Bus, Grant application form received. DPC will consider in its budgeting process.
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SHDC, 26/10/23, Elections notice of canvassing to confirm missing Electoral Registration details
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DALC, ‘Connect’ event 25/10/23 10:00, Devon Housing Commission and its work on Devon housing crisis
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Next Meeting
The next meeting of DPC will be on 6 December 2023 at 7:00 pm.
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Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act, to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following items because of the commercial-in-confidence or employment nature of the business.
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Repainting Road Marking on Ham Lane and in The Level Car Park
It was resolved to accept the quote from JHB UK Ltd.
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Repair of The Ham Retaining Wall
Cllr Hodge declared a disclosable pecuniary interest and left the meeting.
No quotes have been received for the full work described in the brief document. There is one area of work which is more structural and of concern at the southern end of the wall. A revised brief will be used to request quotes for this work to be done as soon as possible. The Clerk and Chair are minded to approve for this work to be done prior to the December meeting. A revised brief can then be send for quotes for the remainder of the work to be done in the spring. This approach was supported in principle by those present.
Cllr Hodge returned to the meeting.
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Annual Leave Application
The Clerk’s annual leave request was approved.
The meeting closed at 21:36.
Sep 20, 2023 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded here: MN_2023 September 06 DPC Approved Minutes
Approved Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall
on Wednesday 6 September 2023 at 7:00p.m.
a. Public Issues
No issues raised.
Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Hodge, Tucker, and Unitt were present, as was A Thom (Clerk), and the Parish Lengthsman for his Report.
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Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Lloyd, Neale, and SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Declaration of Interests
Cllr Nightingale declared an other registrable interest in the Friends of the Dart Bathing Water Status Application. It was resolved to approve the written request for a dispensation to speak on the item.
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Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 4 July 2023.
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Community Reports
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Devon County Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of DCC Cllr Hawkins.
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South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of SHDC Cllr McKay.
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Financial Matters
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Financial Reports
Approval of the financial reports was deferred.
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Payments
It was resolved to authorise the following payments:
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Village Hall, Hire April to July 2023, £120.00
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Clerk Office Expenses Reimbursement, £66.83
The payments made since the last monthly meeting were noted:
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Parish Lengthsman, 22/23 final Lengthsman invoice, £264.00
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Parish Lengthsman, Weeds Project March 2023, £308.00
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Parish Lengthsman, Weeds Project April – June 2023, £241.50
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South West Water, March – June 2023, £32.01
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Parish Lengthsman
The lengthsman gave a verbal report about works carried out in the Parish. They will plan to do the weeds clearance on Dittisham Hill as soon as possible.
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Reporting Salary Payments
The advice via DALC that the payments do not have to be reported in the Minutes was noted.
- SHDC Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
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- 2034/23/COM Land at SX 857 053 Lapthorne Farm Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0JF. Notice of intention to install a telegraph pole at 10.5m high (9m above ground) for the provision of FTTP. Permitted development
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2284/23/TEX Langscott, Lower Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0HY.Proposed works: T1 & T2: Silver Birch – Fell due to both trees are dead. Grant Exemption.
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2385/23/TCA Rose Grove, Lower Street, Dittisham, Dartmouth, TQ6 0HY. T1: Christmas spruce – fell due to close proximity to property on a slope, risk of blowing over. No Objections raised.
The Clerk was asked to enquire about the reason for not requiring planting of replacement trees.
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1883/23/FUL Newstone Blackawton TQ9 7DR. Erection of agricultural building. Conditional Approval.
- Planning applications received since the 5 July 2023 meeting
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2245/23/VAR Greenslades Higher Street Dittisham TQ6 0HT. Application for variation of condition 2 (approved drawings) of planning consent 1446/21/HHO (retrospective).
It was decided not to call an extraordinary meeting to comment.
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2385/23/TCA Rose Grove Lower Street Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0HY. T1: Christmas spruce – fell due to close proximity to property on a slope, risk of blowing over.
The Clerk and Tree Wardens responded. TPO not requested.
- New planning applications
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2209/23/FUL Herongate Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Conversion & extension of boathouse for short term holiday let (resubmission of 3628/22/FUL).
Object (by resolution, one abstention)
DPC’s view agrees with assessment carried out by the SHDC Planning Officer in the pre-application assessment for the previous, withdrawn application: The site is sensitive due to its location in the AONB and immediately adjacent to the Undeveloped Coast, the proposal would extend the habitable accommodation and associated activity close to the foreshore, and it would have an adverse impact on the levels of tranquillity and would fail to conserve and enhance the AONB. DPC also objects because it considers that the proposal would have a negative impact on the character of the Conservation Area is is located within. DPC’s objection is also informed by its observation that the proposed build does not incorporate on-site renewable energy generation, energy storage, or low and zero carbon space and water heating systems, and that the SHDC’s delivering biodiversity net gain and habitat improvements criteria is not met. DPC’s standard comment on light pollution will be made. DPC requests that if SHDC was minded to approve the application a Construction Management Plan be required because of the location’s access issues and the large volume of earth which would need to be removed.
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- 2637/23/VAR Dittisham Hideaway Dittisham TQ6 0JB. Application for variation of condition 1 (Approved Drawings) and discharge of conditions 2 (Landscaping Scheme), 3 (Finishes/Treatment to huts), 4 (Surface WaterManagement Scheme), 7 (Lighting), 9 (Ecological report & LEMP), 10 (Sewage Disposal) and 11 (DEV32) of planning consent 0546/21/FUL
No comment (resolved unanimously). The Clerk was asked respond to SHDC to note that this is a retrospective application and has therefore not been described correctly on the application form.
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Monitoring DPC’s Process to Comment on Planning Applications
It was noted that 2209/23/FUL would be evaluated as requiring discussion.
- New tree applications
- 2812/23/TCA Langscott Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. T1 Judas tree – fell and replace – tree splits off into multi-stems from just above ground level & decay is present within this union.
It was resolved not to object to the works and to request that replacement trees are planted.
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Consultations
No comment made by DPC.
No comment made by DPC.
The Clerk was asked to share the survey with the community. It was resolved that the Clerk would respond on behalf of DPC in consultation with Cllr Nightingale. The Clerk was asked to write to the relevant housing association to ask that a property on The Level which has been empty for about six months is used for accommodation and copy to SHDC.
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Charging for DPC Car Parks
It was resolved to add to the brief for the TAFG for the Review of the policy for private residences access over The Ham a review of DPC’s policy for charging for DPC approved use of its car parks eg site compounds. It was resolved to pursue the outstanding invoice for a site compound and to communicate that DPC withdrew the planned penalty charge for the compound remaining beyond 31 March.
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Traffic Accident affecting The Ham
The Report on an accident in August 2023 was noted. I was agreed to accept Cllr Tucker’s offer to arrange for the replacement post.
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Private Accesses to The Ham
It was noted that risk assessments are being done and that the Clerk has requested the Maintenance team cut back the hedging next to private access onto Ham Lane to improve visibility.
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Registration of The Red Lion Inn as an Asset of Community Value
It was agreed to seek evidence of community support to purchase and run the asset, to continue to further the social wellbeing or social interests of the community using the relevant questions on SHDC’s application form. DPC’s methods will include web-based and paper forms, Parish Magazine, and a petition. Cllr Nightingale will discuss with the owner.
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Friends of the Dart Bathing Water Status Application
Cllr Nightingale described the proposal before leaving the room.
It was unanimously resolved that DPC will submit a letter of support.
Cllr Nightingale returned to the room.
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Community Consultation Process
The Clerk noted that a report and resources have been provided to DPC.
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Proposal for a DPC WhatsApp Group
DPC Councillors chose not to participate in a WhatsAppGroup to be used for short DPC communications.
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DALC AGM Conference and Exhibition
The event on 27/09/23 was noted. It was resolved that DPC would pay the attendance expenses of attending Cllrs. Tickets £45 per DPC attendee. Cllrs Nightingale and Hodge are attending.
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Correspondence
The following correspondence was noted:
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Invitation, South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership, online 26/10/23 at 2:00 pm
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9/8/23, Stagecoach, Bus service changes from Sunday 3/9/23
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AONB Farming in Protected Landscapes grant scheme. Extended until March 2025.
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31/8/23, Introductory email from new Stakeholder Liaison Team, DCC Highways
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South Devon and Dartmoor Community Safety Partnership, Let’s Talk Teenagers and Let’s Talk Pre-Teens, Support sessions for parents in September & October
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Scribefest, 21/09/23, (Online), Free
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Next Meeting
It was noted that the next monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 4 October 2023 at 7:00 pm.
The meeting closed at 9:10 pm.