Oct 16, 2020 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded as a pdf here MN_2020 October 14 EM DPC Draft Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held on Wednesday 14 October 2020 at 6:00 p.m. using public videoconferencing
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Anderson (Vice-Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Lloyd, Neale, and Nightingale, were present, as was A Thom (Clerk). There were no members of the public.
204/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Quinn.
205/20 Declaration of Interests
None declared.
206/20 Maintenance Working Group
It was unanimously resolved to support the content of the proposed specifications for the new maintenance contract as circulated. The Clerk’s request to alter formatting and descriptions was allowed.
207/20 West Dart Bus – Ivybridge and District Community Transport Association
No councillor is being proposed to replace the retiring Blackawton based trustee. DPC will support advertisement of the upcoming vacancy.
208/20 Financial Matters
The cost of a one of cut of the Old Chapel Burial Ground was approved. £106.04 plus VAT has been quoted. The Clerk is to obtain a price which includes removal of cuttings.
The meeting closed 18:14
Oct 16, 2020 | Minutes
The Minutes can be read below or downloaded as a pdf here MN_2020 October 07 DPC Draft Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held on Wednesday 7 October 2020 at 7:00 p.m. using public videoconferencing
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Anderson (Vice-Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Neale, Nightingale, and Quinn were present, as were South Hams District Councillor McKay, Devon County Councillor Hawkins, and A Thom (Clerk). There were no members of the public.
187/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Green.
188/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllr Nightingale declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in application 3075/20/PDM Barns at Capton. Cllr Quinn declared a personal interest in application 1105/20/HHO Dartside.
189/20 Application for Co-option as a Parish Councillor.
Ros Neale made a statement introducing herself and her application for co-option.
It was unanimously resolved to confirm co-option.
It was resolved that Cllr Neale will sign the undertaking in the presence of the Clerk at she and the Clerk’s earliest convenience.
190/20 Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 2 September 2020.
191/20 COVID-19 Response
The project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information was reviewed. Devon County Cllr Hawkins responded to Cllr Nightingale’s question about DCC’s COVID 19 plans. SHDC will talk to parishes over next few months – as a learning process about how it can help in the future.
192/20 Public Issues
192/20.1 Planting of Crocus Corms
It was resolved unanimously to accept the offer from Rotary to plant 900 corms in the autumn. The purple crocus symbolises Rotary’s efforts to eradicate polio worldwide. It is expected that most will be planted around Ham Triangle. To be planted in consultation with the Maintenance Working Group. Cllr Faulkner will list the sites.
192/20.2 Hedge Cutting
Cllr Faulkner asked when the hedge abutting Dittisham Hill will be cut.
He was advised that the weather has made it difficult for the contractor. They are starting with the field hedges. Dittisham Hill will be done within the next 2-3 weeks. DEFRA is strict about 1 September being the earliest legal date to cut hedges.
192/20.3 Capton Stream
Cllr Nightingale said that the project to unblock the Stream is ongoing. They may get Exjet to clear silt/clay from a blocked culvert.
193/20 Community Reports
193/20.1 Devon County Council Councillor
The Neighbourhood Officer has today raised an issue with debris from hedge cutting not being cleared. Lower Street is on the circuit for resurfacing. Higher Street is also on DCC’s list for repairs. A builder on the road to The Ham has been told to move their materials off the road as soon as possible. There is £750 DCC grant funding available. It needs to be allocated by Christmas.
It was agreed that the Clerk will reforward an email from a resident about the resurfacing of Lower Street.
Cllr Hawkins emailed report notes included the following:
The first home beds at Little Cotton Farm in Dartmouth will be available next spring. A new nursing home is also being discussed for the site nearest the Health and Well-being Centre Leisure Centre. It was agreed at the last Full District Council Meeting to put £243,000 into reopening all four District Leisure Centres. This money will help pay wages costs etc up until next March. County and the eight Districts have told the Government that they do not support Unitary Devon. The Government consultation on planning regulations has been clearly told that South Hams District Council is not supportive of some of the changes. The two main concerns are that the District would have to provide twice as many houses as planned and that the raising of the threshold of 10 to 40 for an affordable contribution %. South Hams has clearly said we do not support these in an Area such as ours with AONBs and small communities.
193/20.2 South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred because Cllr McKay was temporarily unavailable.
193/20 New Planning Applications.
193/20.1 1105/20/HHO Dartside Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. READVERTISEMENT (Revised Plans Received) Householder application for construction of ancillary garden building (summerhouse) within rear curtilage.
Cllr Quinn raised a concern about the Design and Access statement saying that Manor Street would be blocked for 30-60 minutes while deliveries unload.
- It was agreed that Cllr Quinns point should be addressed in more detail in a construction method statement.
- The building must be ancillary to the house and not used as a separate residential unit.
- DPC’s comment about reducing light pollution will be included in the comment.
Support subject to an ancillary use condition as above and with the comments as above (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Bond, Cllr Quinn abstained).
193/20.2 3075/20/PDM Barns at Capton Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0JE. Application to determine if prior approval is required for proposed change of use of agricultural building to 4no. dwellinghouses and associated operational development (Class Q(a+b)).
Relevant evidence can be submitted directly to SHDC.
193/20.3 3002/20/ARC Downton Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JD. Dittisham TQ6 0JD. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 5-10 & 13 of listed building consent 1462/19/LBC
3001/20/ARC Downton Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JD. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 10-15 & 18 of planning consent 1461/19/FUL.
Support both of the above applications (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Nightingale, unanimous).
193/20.4 2345/20/HHO Penveron The Level Dittisham TQ6 0ES. Householder application for roof terrace decking and balustrade works.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner, unanimous).
194/20 South Hams District Council Councillor
Cllr McKay reported that the Localities Task and Finish Group is ongoing. The role is under review, with learning from the COVID experience. He has sent DPC a briefing note with his view on the proposed changes to Government planning policy. There has been a cross party rejection of them. SHDC has replied to the Government’s consultation on the proposed changes to planning policy, which Cllr McKay fully supports.
195/20 Consultations
- NALC White paper – Planning for the future. Closes 15 October 2020
Cllr Anderson said he tends to concur with Cllr McKay. The division into growth, renewal, and project areas means that Dittisham is OK. He would respond supporting protected area status of relevance to Dittisham, other parts not directly relevant. It was resolved that Cllr Anderson and the Clerk would write a response, in consultation with other councillors.
- NALC Transparency and competition (land control). Closes 16 October 2020
No comment by DPC,
- DCC 2021-2027 Updated Local Flood Risk Management Strategy for Devon. Closes 15 October 2020
No comment by DPC. Cllr Anderson commented that there is a good executive summary.
- SHDC Licensing Act 2003 – Licensing Policy Consultation. Closes 16 October 2020.
No comment by DPC.
- Department for Transport, Pavement parking: options for change, Closes 22 November 2020.
Comment deferred to November meeting of DPC.
196/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
196/20.1 Habitat Review with Sustainable Dittisham
The Report and its Proposals were considered. It was resolved unanimously to accept proposals 6-9, which address proposed planting and authorise expenditure of £250.
Cllr Quinn requested that the proposal for a willow dome on The Ham be placed on the November agenda, consistent with DPC’s decision that it be reviewed in the autumn
196/20.2 Maintenance Working Group
Finalisation of the content of the proposed specifications for the new maintenance contract was deferred to an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 14 October at 6 pm.
Cllr Tucker said that DPC needs notices to explain any uncut areas. Cllr Hawkins said that planting and signs were possible uses of the available grant from DCC.
196/20.3 Car Parks Working Group
The Group’s recommendations regarding the Dittisham Sailing Club permits were reviewed. It was unanimously resolved to accept the recommendation that paper permits be continued for 2021. It was resolved unanimously that the charge for the permits would be increased by 20% because of the VAT cost. If necessary, based on the consultation response, DPC can give a rebate. The decision about whether to offer DSC permits in 2022 was deferred, for review in September 2021. The Clerk will contact and write to DSC about the price increase.
196/20.4 Flooding & Drainage Task and Finish Group
The Group’s Report and its Recommendations were considered and accepted.
The Parish lengthsman will clear blocked road drains in the village, parishioners to be encouraged in sourcing/storing materials such as sandbags, plastic sheeting etc. in readiness to alleviate flooding in their property should it be prone to flooding, and parishioners can also be of great help if they can regularly clear any loose debris, particularly leaves, from drain tops adjacent to their properties.
197/20 Village Hall Management Committee Report
It was agreed to accept the Report, and to write to the VHMC to say thank you and that DPC accepts the contents.
198/20 Dog Fouling
The Report, whether to approve installation & relocation of bins, and whether to use SHDC’s dog on lead posters were deferred to the November meeting.
Parishioners to be asked for their views and suggestions on management of this problem.
199/20 The Use of The Ham Policy
DPC considered the addition of a new section regarding access to properties and decided that it would be rejected. The Clerk will advise the owner property which requested access.
200/20 West Dart Bus – Ivybridge and District Community Transport Association
This item to consider proposing a councillor to replace the retiring Blackawton based trustee was deferred to the 14 October extraordinary meeting due to the lateness of the hour.
201/20 Financial Matters
201/20.1 Financial Report
The Report and bank reconciliation which showed a balance of £67,528.31 and unearmarked reserves of £17,644.01, were approved.
201/20.2 Payments
- SWW, Quay Standpipe, £40.09
- Cllr Bond, Grass Seed, £9.99
- Clerk’s Expenses Reimbursement CE35 £111.01
- VAT payment to HMRC £574.27
- One of cut of the Old Chapel Burial Ground £106.04 plus VAT – deferred
- Cllr Anderson’s expenses 21.98
- Chapter 8 training, Cllr Bond, £75+VAT
It was resolved to approve the above with the exception of the Burial Ground cut which was deferred.
- Overlay stickers to correct Car Park & Ham Lane signs
It was resolved to approve purchase of the stickers to correct the website and email addresses on the terms and conditions signs in the two car parks.
The quote of £100 for a contractor to remove the remaining base and make good was approved. The Clerk was given authority to agree with the Raleigh Estate whether they want the hard core / chippings removed, or used to improve the potholes in the field access.
202/20 Correspondence
The following correspondence was noted:
- 19/9/20 Facebook message – lack of social distancing on pontoon and bottom Manor Street
- 18/8/20 Village Website – No found on web searches
- 2/9/20 Tree down FP15, Dittisham Mill Creek – referred to DCC & DHNA
- 28/8/20 Capton Mill Bridge, repair required – referred to DCC
- 28/8/20 Resurfacing of Lower Street – passed on to DCC
- 30/9/20, Abandoned caravan on Strete road, referred to DCC which is managing
- 24/8/20 Dartmouth Town Council, Request for meeting and public space to extend community service
- 1/10/20 Two phone calls members of the public, dead swan on Dittisham Mill Creek, referred & reported to SHDC.
- 11/9/20 Access required to Blackberry Cottage for vehicle to flush drains, provided
203/20 Next meeting
It was confirmed that the next ordinary meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be held on 4 November 2020 at 7:00 pm. An extraordinary meeting will be held on 14 October at 6 pm to agree the contents of the new maintenance contract.
Sep 29, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 September 2019 at 7:00p.m.
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chairman), Anderson (Vice-Chairman), Bond, Green, Faulkner, Quinn and Nightingale were present, as were South Hams District Cllr McKay, Devon County Cllr Hawkins, A Thom (Clerk), and two members of the public.
145/19 Apologies
All councillors present.
Cllr Tucker told the meeting that Tony Westcott had resigned from the Parish Council.
146/19 Declaration of Interests
None declared
147/19 Approval of the minutes of the meetings held on 3 July and 19 July 2019.
It was resolved to approve the minutes.
148/19 Public Issues
148/19.1 Maintenance of St George’s Church
A Parishioner reported that the first phase of maintenance works is complete. Works will continue in September and October. The planned finish date is 31 October.
148/19.2 Coombe Farm Studios Mobile Airstream Planning Application
The applicant explained that the Airstream is for use by the chef because the cost of local accommodation is unaffordable, and then by friends and family if it is free. It has been on site since March 2019. They had thought that the Airstream was ancillary and therefore acceptable. The need for a 0.8 full time equivalent chef has been generated by a 70% increase in business.
149/19 Community Reports
149/19.1 South Hams District Council
South Hams District Council Councillor McKay reported SHDC is working on its response to Climate Change. The possibility of a Citizens Assembly is being discussed. That proposal is controversial. There is a problem with dog poo in public spaces. Cllr McKay favours Parish Councils having authority to decide on the management of local dog poo pollution problems.
149/19.2 Devon County Council
Devon County Hawkins reported SHDC has decided to proceed with the Health and Well Being Centre. It is planned to submit a planning application in November 2019 and for the Centre to open in Winter or Spring 2021. There is a proposed reduction in district nurses – which Cllr Hawkins does not support. DCC has been asked to fix the damaged wall at Shute Hill. Cllrs reported that the wall is getting worse, will eventually collapse, and they will send further photos.
150/19 Communications in relation to planning/tree applications.
- 0847/19/TPO Firebird The Level Dittisham Devon TQ6 0ES. T0043, T0044, T0045, T0046 & T0051: Sycamore – coppice to ground level. Reason: to manage as hedgeline and encourage new growth at base. Replant with 20 native hedge mix. T0042: Ash – Fell due to showing signs of die back in crown and structurally weak union at base. Split Decision. Grant of Conditonal Consent T0042: Elm – Fell with replanting condition under the exemption. Refusal of Consent for all other trees.
- 1384/19/HHO & 1385/19/LBC1 The Old Brewhouse Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Householder & Listed Building Consent application for replacement roof and conservation velux to the rear with stable door at first floor (Retrospective). Conditional Approval.
- 1902/19/ARC Pond View Newlands Farm Blackawton Devon TQ9 7DR. Application for Approval of Details Reserved by Condition 12 of Planning Consent 1212/18/FUL. Discharge of condition Approved.
- 3865/18/VAR Homelands Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for variation of condition 2 of planning permission 18/2500/11/F to allow the building to be used for ancillary accommodation in connection with the main dwelling. Conditional Approval.
- 0713/19/LBC Ferry Boat Inn Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed Building Consent application to replace existing roof covering with new. Withdrawn.
- 0479/19/VAR Darling Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX READVERTISEMENT (Revised Plans) Application for removal or variation of condition 2 (APPROVED PLANS) following grant of planning permission18/0742/15/F. Conditional Approval.
- 1680/19/FUL Little Coombe Farm Dittisham Devon TQ6 0JB. Continued use of land for the siting of an airstream caravan to be used for holiday use – previously granted permission under application18/2996/13/F. Conditional Approval.
- 1737/19/PDM Barn at Capton Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0JE. Notification for prior approval for proposed change of use of agricultural building to 2no. dwellinghouses (Class C3) and for associated operational development(Class Q(a+b)). Prior Approval Given.
151/19 New planning/tree applications.
- 2398/19/FUL Coombe Farm Studios Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0JA. Retrospective application for permission to site mobile airstream caravan unit on land for free use by family, friends and staff.
The Joint Local Plan supports local businesses which support the local economy. DPC is aware local hospitality businesses have a problem sourcing staff because of lack of affordable local accommodation.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Green)
- 2583/19/FUL Land At SX 861 514 North of Seymour Drive Dartmouth. Erection of 9no. dwellings and associated works (resubmission of 0852/19/FUL).
Object on same grounds as the objection to the previous application on the same site (proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Nightingale, Cllr Green abstained).
- 2543/19/TCA Sunnybank, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX. T1: Larch – Fell.
Object because there are no supporting arboricultural grounds, the tree appears in good condition, loss of ash trees will lead to loss of mature trees in the village (proposed Cllr Nightingale, seconded Cllr Green)
152/19 Consultations
- Proposed changes to Service Delivery within Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. Closes 20/9/19.
No comment will be made by DPC.
- Parking in Dartmouth, SHDC, DCC and Dartmouth Town Council. Closes 14/10/19.
Will be on the October Agenda.
- Review of Polling Districts and Polling Places, South Hams District Council. Closes 20/9/19.
No comment will be made by DPC
153/19 Camping on and Hire of The Ham
The meeting agreed that Cllrs Tucker, Anderson, and Faulkner would form a task and finish group to review the current camping policy & the hire of The Ham including possibly obtaining legal advice. It will consider the current documents and use of The Ham. It will report back to the 2 October meeting. The report will include whether obtaining formal legal advice is recommended. A second phase may involve a community consultation.
154/19 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
154/19.1 Playground Working Group
The meeting considered a decision to buy & install a birds nest swing. Three quotes were discussed. The cheapest was considered out of keeping with the location. Cllr Faulkner advised that the bolts in the preferred swing will loosen over time.
It was resolved to choose the middle priced contractor subject to the correct safety surface being confirmed and Cllr Faulkner and Nightingale will liaise regarding better fixings. If better fixings possible they will be purchased, if not DPC will proceed with the current fixings. The decision to proceed will be made by the Clerk taking advice from Cllrs Nightingale and Faulkner. The old swing will be disposed of, not sold, because DPC may be liable if it sells it.
It was resolved that DPC will remove the wooden edge and the black matting. It is expected that a saving will be made and a revised quote will be required.
154/19.2 Car Parks Working Group
An enquiry has been sent to SHDC regarding the possibility of issuing paperless permits to Dittisham Sailing Club. A reply is pending and the Group will report to the 2 October meeting.
154/19.3 Signs on Dittisham Pontoon
The possibility of asking DHNA to install large information signs and crabbing with kindness signs on the pontoon was discussed. Cllr Anderson will liaise with the Harbour Master in September and report back to a future meeting.
154/19.4 Picnic Tables on The Ham
It was resolved to spend up to £100 to purchase of the now damaged borrowed table. The table will be fixed in place on The Ham such that it is not in the way of the Air Ambulance.
155/19 Grant Policy
It was resolved to adopt the proposed Policy. Cllr Faulkner abstained.
156/19 Grant Request
This item was moved up the Agenda at the Chair’s discretion. DPC considered the request from St George’s Church for a grant toward the cost of grounds maintenance in the churchyard and cemetery. The Clerk summarised the S137 value requirement. It was noted that the Church is an important building in the Parish, provides an important facility, and the upkeep of the Church is important. It was resolved to grant £1,250 for one year.
157/19 Parish Lengthsman
Cllr Bond reported that the Lengthsman has started and things are going well. Cllr Bond’s list of priority drainage was discussed. The lengthsman liaises with Cllr Bond and provides a monthly written report. Cllrs Tucker and Green will assist in talking to landowners as required. The PC sends its thanks for the work done by the Lengthsman and the excellent approach.
158/19 Standards and Governance Training, 3/10/19, Follaton House
Cllr Quinn was nominated to attend. A report on the training will be emailed by Cllr Quinn to Parish Councillors. Cllr Quinn will also present the content to a meeting of Councillors if the training content justifies.
159/19 Co-option of a Parish Councillor
It was agreed that if there is no call for an election, the Clerk will advertise the two vacancies for the following two weeks. The interview of any candidates will be on Wednesday 16 October, at 6:00 pm unless Cllrs require a different time of day.
160/19 Financial Matters
160/19.1 Financial Report
The version sent on 4 September which showed a balance of £59,918.67 and unearmarked reserves of £-1,050.55 was approved.
160/19.2 Payments
It was resolved to approve the following payments:
- Maintenance Contractor 18/19 contract £4,700.00
- Rattery Sawmill Picnic Tables – two £408.00
- SHDC RingGo overpayment reimbursement £226.26
- G Anderson Copy maps £26.40
- R Bond Ground anchor reimbursement £10.89
- Clerk Office expenses reimbursement £109.37
Cllr Tucker reminded Cllrs to be aware that some of the information it has access to is commercial in confidence sensitive information. Councillors can bring the council into disrepute.
160/19.3 Overtime
No overtime claim made.
160/19.4 HMRC Employers’ National Insurance
It was resolved to approve payment of historical HMRC Employers’ NI debt £317.42.
160/19.5 Interim Budget
It was resolved to approve the proposed interim budget. The budget allocates increased funds to staff costs in the current budget and to the sick leave reserve, reduces the budgeted extra loan repayment, and DPC will determine the actual extra loan repayment in its March 2020 meeting.
160/19.6 Request for grants from the Parish of Dittisham Charity
The request by DPC for grants from the Parish of Dittisham Charity to support purchase of the defibrillators and the night landing column were confirmed.
160/19.7 The Ham Toilets Pay on Entry
It was resolved to offer SHDC an annual payment of £1,000 to remove the pay on entry.
160/19.8 Dittisham Village Hall building works and processes
Cllr Tucker explained that a meeting has been held with a representative of the Village Hall Management Committee to clarify DPC’s responsibilities and liabilities for the Hall and the responsibility of representative trustees on the VHMC. It has been established that DPC is a Custodian Trustee. The VHMC is responsible for the Hall and DPC is indemnified. DPC is a leasee and at end of the lease is with the PCC responsible to hand the Hall back to the Exeter Diocese in an acceptable condition. The VHMC are all trustees. The VHMC representative suggested a sinking fund for any end of lease works. The Village Hall would put in an equal amount. This proposal will be added to the next budget. Further discussions are needed with the VHMC to formalise the proposal. DPC will request an annual report from the VHMC on the physical state of the Hall – to be presented to the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council each May.
160/19.9 Clerk’s Payscale
It was noted that the Clerk’s agreed payscale is correctly named SCP 28 on the revised scale.
160/19.10 Bank Account signatories
It was resolved to add Cllr Anderson to the mandate for both DPC bank accounts and that he will be an electronic transactions signatory.
161/19 Correspondence
Sent
- Letter to thank the Dittisham Regatta Committee for its donation of £2,100 for a defibrillator near the pontoon
- Valuation Office Agency Request for Information Non-Domestic Rating for The Level car park & for The Ham car park.
Received
- SHDC, Request for Town or Parish Council’s views on the withdrawal, over two years, of the payment of the Council Tax Support Grant.
162/19 Next meeting
It was confirmed that the next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be on 2 October 2019 at 7:00 pm.
Cllr Tucker gave his apologies that he will be late of possibly absent from that meeting due to a conflicting commitment.
Sep 11, 2020 | Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held on
Wednesday 2 September 2020 at 7:00p.m using public videoconferencing
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Anderson (Vice-Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Green, Nightingale, and Quinn were present, as were South Hams District Councillor McKay, Devon County Councillor Hawkins, and A Thom (Clerk). There were two members of the public.
174/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Lloyd.
175/20 Declaration of Interests
None declared.
176/20 Approval of the minutes of the meetings held on 1 July, and 22 July 2020.
It was resolved to approve the minutes.
177/20 COVID-19 Response
The project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information was reviewed. No issues were raised.
178/20 Public Issues
178/20.1 Flooding in the Village
There were areas of flooding in the village during the downpours on 13 and 14 August.
A Task and Finish Group was formed to consider the local preventive response to the very heavy rain we have been experiencing. It is made up of Cllrs Green, Bond, and Faulkner, and Mike Pearey (Parish Lengthsman) –. Cllr Hawkins will listen in. The TAFG will contact Cllr Nightingale regarding Capton. Cllr Bond will organise. The group prefers to meet face to face, socially distanced, if possible.
Residents are asked that if there is heavy rain, please go and photograph where the water is running.
The Group will report back to the October or November meeting of DPC.
178/20.2 Complaint about The Ham Bottle Bank
This complaint relates to the bottle bank being left full, and further waste then dumped around it making it more unsightly.
Cllr Tucker asked if the bottle bank might be able to be removed following implementation next year of the new waste system – which includes glass collection from households. Cllr McKay said this might be possible. Cllr McKay will review the suggestion with SHDC’s Officers.
There is a problem with reports of full bottle banks on The Ham not being actioned promptly. This will be chased with Cllr McKay’s assistance. There is also an ongoing problem with fly tipping around the Foxenhole bottle bank.
DPC will request a SHDC Officer’s Briefing on the new recycling service takes place two weeks after the November DPC meeting, on 18 November. This Briefing will be promoted to residents.
178/20.3 Dog fouling
The Clerk passed on that further comments have been received from residents concerned about dog fouling in the village. Cllr McKay reported that Councillors can give fixed penalty notices for littering – training is required if name/address is requested. The Clerk and Cllr McKay will pursue the request already made by DPC, for SHDC to relocate some village bins and for one new bin to be installed.
179/20 Community Reports
179/20.1 Devon County Council Councillor
County Cllr Hawkins said that he had nothing to report.
Cllr Tucker asked Cllr Hawkins to raise with his colleague, the badly potholed state of the bypass to Dittisham from Totnes. Cllr Nightingale has information about an Energy Saving Trust funded event for councillors about EV charging points, which he will pass on to Cllr Hawkins for dissemination.
179/20.2 South Hams District Council Councillor
South Hams District Council Councillor McKay reported that SHDC is reconsidering its Budget. Although the Council was not in a bad position, there is the prospect of a big budget gap – with the prospect of a COVID second wave plus the effect of Brexit – so SHDC will have to be careful. SHDC is holding workshops on how to recover. There is another Overview and Scrutiny meeting tomorrow. The climate change and biodiversity fund has not been used yet.
Cllr McKay has acquired a traffic speed radar, to accrue data about how fast the traffic in Harbertonford travels, with a view to achieving action on that issue. It is available if needed in other locations.
180/20 Communications in relation to planning/tree applications.
180/20.1 1106/20/LBC Dartside Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed Building Consent for construction of ancillary garden building (summerhouse) within rear curtilage. Withdrawn.
180/20.2 1130/20/HHO & 1131/20/LBC Dartside Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Householder & listed building consent for replacement of two low-quality extensions and general refurbishment. Conditional Approval.
180/20.3 1649/20/HHO & 1650/20/LBC Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Retrospective householder and listed building consent application for conversion of swimming pool barn and proposed refurbishment works. Conditional Approval.
180/20.4 1833/20/VAR Barberry Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JA. Removal of condition (e) of planning consent 18/1285/75/1 (agricultural occupancy condition). Conditional Approval.
180/20.5 2041/20/ARC Kiln Lyon Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 3 and 4 of planning consent 0277/20/FUL. Discharge of condition Approved.
180/20.6 Planning Inspectorate regarding appeals for Seymour Drive Application numbers 0319/20/CLE and 2583/19/FUL. The PI will make its decision on both applications at the same time.
180/20.7 Serve a TPO – Ref: 1403309 South Hams District Council No. 1014 Tree Preservation Order 2020. Capton Wood, Capton, centred at SX836540 Confirmed as Served.
181/20 New planning applications.
181/20.1 1585/20/FUL Land adjacent to Dartmouth Park and Ride site Wessex Way Dartmouth. READVERTISEMENT (Revised Plans Received) Construction of new two storey Health and Well-being Centre and associated external works.
No further comments.
181/20.2 2626/20/ARC Bruckton Shippon Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 4 & 5 of listed building consent 0204/20/LBC.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Nightingale, unanimous).
181/20.3 2516/20/LBC & 2515/20/HHO 1 Glendale Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EY. Listed building and householder consent for internal alterations, general refurbishment and installation of 2no. rooflights.
The proposal has rooflights facing south.
Support with DPC’s comment about addressing the cumulative effect of light pollution on nocturnal species and on residential amenity (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner, unanimous).
181/20.4 2123/20/LBC The Linhay Barn, Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Listed building consent for refurbishment works.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Nightingale, unanimous).
182/20 Planning application responded to during the Clerk’s leave
182/20.1 2132/20/VAR Greenbank Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) following grant of planning consent 3578/19/FUL to install 12no. solar pv panels and 2no. velux roof lights on south east roof elevation, alterations to 1no. living room window from flat to shallow bay window.
Support.
183/20 Consultations
- England Tree Strategy. Closes 11 September 2020
Cllrs Green, Faulkner, and Nightingale are preparing a response.
- SHDC Parking Permit Review. Closes 11 September 2020
- NALC proposed changes to the current planning system. Closes 17 September 2020
Cllr Anderson said that the proposal tries to reinforce protection of the AONB and similar areas.
- NALC White paper – Planning for the future. Closes 15 October 2020
- NALC Transparency and competition (land control). Closes 16 October 2020
- DCC 2021-2027 Updated Local Flood Risk Management Strategy for Devon. Closes 15 October 2020
The Task and Finish Group will make suggestions.
- SHDC Licensing Act 2003 – Licensing Policy Consultation. Closes 16 October 2020
184/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
184/20.1 Maintenance Working Group
The birds nest swing has been installed on The Ham. One shackle went missing post-installation. It has been replaced with the same. The playground inspection report identified that the birds nest swing is a little too low. The installer has been asked to rectify.
Hemlock Water Dropwort was identified on The Ham, by Sustainable Dittisham. Cllr Bond took management advice from the Environment Agency. There is no specific guidance on what to do. It has been cut and left.
184/20.2 Car Parks
Regarding the Dittisham Sailing Club permits, the Working Group is mindful of DSC’s November AGM, but the Working Group needs to meet to form a view. It will report to the 7 October meeting of DPC.
A member of public joined the meeting temporarily.
185/20 Vacancy for a Parish Councillor
It was agreed to promote the vacancy without a closing date for submissions of interest.
186/20 Financial Matters
186/20.1 Financial Report
The report, which showed a balance of £61,444.50 and unearmarked reserves of £10,725.94 was adopted by resolution.
186/20.2 Payments
It was resolved to approve the following payment: Play Inspection Company, Annual and post-installation inspection, £300.00
It was resolved unanimously to approve the payment of 90% of the following invoice from Wicksteed: Purchase and installation birds nest swing, £8,093.59. 10% will be withheld until the height of the swing has been rectified. The Clerk will write to Wicksteed with feedback about DPC’s experience in purchasing the galleon and the swing. Councillors will send feedback suggestions to the Clerk.
186/20.3 The new national Clerk’s pay agreement with effective date 1 April 2020 was noted.
184/20.4 Clerk’s Overtime Claim
It was resolved to approve the claim for payment for 20 hours overtime worked, mainly prior to taking annual leave.
A performance review and a review of workload have been planned for October.
185/20 Correspondence
- 28/7/20 Premier Marinas’ town planning consultant regarding Noss Marina Applications 0504/20/VAR, 0528/20/FUL & 0529/20/FUL. Cllr Anderson responded with clarification to SHDC that DPC supports with robust planning conditions to mitigate any negative effect on the environment.
186/20 Next meeting
It was confirmed that the next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be held on 7 October 2020 at 7:00 pm.
The meeting closed at 20:55.
Jul 25, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held via public videoconferencing on Wednesday 22 July 2020 at 7:00p.m.
Open Forum
- Dog Fouling
The requirement that dogs in public spaces must be on a lead may not be well understood. The person in charge of a dog whether they are the owner or not, must clean up after the dog has fouled in a public space.
SHDC communications have made a new poster – which South Hams District Cllr McKay will send and Cllr Lloyd will post.
Cllr Nightingale will write an article for the parish website and parish magazine about tapeworm spread in dog faeces and the impact on sheep.
b.West Dart Bus
The West Dart Bus would like to know the needs of the residents in the near to mid-term future. One option is to offer a register and book in advance service. This would not be eligible for the Devon wide pass, but they could as an organisation choose not to charge for a trial period, thus preventing the need to handle cash or manage a card payment machine. It would also give a better idea of numbers likely to use the
service under the prevailing conditions. The West Dart Bus could offer a volunteer car service to help those in current need is a demand? Please contact the West Dart Bus directly with comments.
Cllr Faulkner commented that the bus usually takes 6-7 people at most, booking by phone could be obstacle, and the bus is usually busy over the summer holiday makers who have alternative means of transport. Cllr Nightingale said that Sustainable Dittisham is doing a transport survey in about 5-6 weeks and will add questions relevant to the use and demand for the Bus.
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Anderson (Vice-Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Lloyd, Nightingale, and Quinn were present, as were South Hams District Councillor McKay, and A Thom (Clerk). There were no members of the public.
165/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Green, and from Devon County Cllr Hawkins.
166/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllr Tucker declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in Item 7, Outdoor Swimming Society Dart 10K event.
167/20 New planning applications.
167/20.1 1669/20/HHO Capton Mill Cottage Capton Dittisham TQ6 0JE. Householder application for the erection of timber framed studio/workshop with washroom and replacement septic tank.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Bond)
167/20.2 1833/20/VAR Barberry Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JA. Removal of condition (e) of planning consent 18/1285/75/1 (agricultural occupancy condition).
As a CLE has been granted for existing use for breach of the agricultural occupancy condition this application is not relevant. South Hams District Cllr McKay will look into the legal process followed to grant the CLE and respond to DPC.
167/20.3 2041/20/ARC Kiln Lyon Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 3 and 4 of planning consent 0277/20/FUL.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner)
167/20.4 2134/20/FUL The Linhay Barn Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Refurbishment and change of use from holiday let to full residential.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Nightingale)
168/20 Consultations
- Dog Control Orders. Closes 31 July 2020
DPC supports the renewal of the Public Space Protection Orders and the proposed addition of new orders within existing PSPO areas: that dog walkers must carry dog bags or other container to collect dog waste, and to restrict amount of dogs that can be walked to four at a time. DPC also encourages SHDC communications to reinforce the existing orders.
169/20 Maintenance Contract
The previous maintenance contract ended in July and the contractor has chosen not to accept a one year extension. A communication will be sent thank the previous maintenance contractor for 28 years of service.
Urgent arrangements are being made for grounds maintenance works to be carried out over the short term.
It was resolved to accept SHDC’s proposal for the remaining maintenance works required on The Ham in 2020. It was resolved to delegate to the Clerk authority to decide, taking advice from Maintenance Working Group, whether to accept a pending price from SHDC to strim the Level Car Park in September, and for pending management by SHDC of Hemlock Water Dropwort identified in the gullies around The Ham.
The proposed timeline to develop and advertise a new maintenance contract was accepted: In September DPC will look closely at the contract and incorporate management suggestions from Sustainable Dittisham. The 7/10/20 Meeting of DPC will agree the content of a new contract. Over October and November the contract will be advertised, potential contractors interviewed and quotes assessed. The 2/12/20 meeting of DPC is expected to decide on a new contractor. It is expected that the contract term will be 1/1/21 – 31/12/23, with an optional one year extension. The habitat review is ongoing and it was suggested that the contract have the flexibility to incorporate changes.
It was resolved that the approval MN 55/20.3 for the maintenance contractor to assist in reinstalling the noticeboard on The Ham be amended to refer to the individual and to allow two hours of work.
Cllr Quinn left the meeting
170/20 COVID-19 Response
Councillors noted the car parks and playground risk assessments, and action taken to reduce risk of spread of COVID-19 / modify behaviour. It was unanimously resolved that DPC’s view is that the practical and manageable steps are in place. DPC will monitor the risk of the situation and respond if the risk increases. DPC will increase its communication about use of the playground / The Ham and car parks. As well as the parish website and DPC Facebook page, holiday cottage businesses will be emailed.
171/20 Outdoor Swimming Society Dart 10k Event in 2021
It was resolved to accept the recommendations that a deposit of £1,500 is required and that going forward this be calculated as a percentage of the total fee – so that it accounts for inflationary changes (currently 44%), and that the CPI increase in the hire fee be calculated as near as possible to the days of the event and then deducted from the deposit returned to OSS, and to agree to the request for OSS to pay the hire fee and deposit on 31 October 2020.
172/20 Summer Pontoon
Concerns raised about obtaining socially distanced access to boats berthed on the pontoon, and the suggestions for a larger sign / extra sign and more leggo were discussed. Cllr Nightingale will write to the Harbour Master suggesting fewer and more graphic signs, and sharing the images he has accessed from the person who is doing signage for London public transport. Cllr Nightingale will also write to see if the Anchorstone Café can assist with messaging when crabbing buckets are obtained to ask users of the pontoon to please be responsible and social distance.
173/20 Payments
It was resolved to approve payment of the following costs:
- Maintenance contractor £50.60
- Clerk’s Overtime claim CE19 15 hours over May and June for DPC projects and COVID-19 response.
The meeting ended at 20 48.
Jul 25, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held using public videoconferencing on Wednesday 1 July 2020 at 7:00p.m.
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Anderson (Vice-Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Green, Lloyd, Nightingale, and Quinn were present, as were South Hams District Councillor McKay, Devon County Cllr Hawkins, and A Thom (Clerk). There were three members of the public.
145/20 Apologies
All councillors present.
146/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllr Tucker declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in Item 12.4, OSS Event Booking Request.
Cllr Quinn declared a personal interest in Item 8.5, Dartside planning application
147/20 Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 3 June 2020.
148/20 COVID-19 Response
The project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information was reviewed.
It was commented that DPC needs to be ready with a plan in the event of a local lockdown.
149/20 Public Issues.
149/20.1 Dartside Planning Application
A member of the public commented on errors in the plans, and raised concerns: no measurements of new building are provided to inform a decision, the application doesn’t show that the proposed building overlooks Bay Cottage’s garden, and that it can be seen from river.
The Agent for the applicant said that they have provided additional information which gives area for current and proposed buildings – the proposed is about double the surface area of the current.
150/20 Community Reports
150/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
The West Dart ward has been responding to COVID-19 as a cluster with Totnes. This has been very useful. It is being reviewed and South Hams District Cllr McKay hopes it will continue and be developed. Business support via the discretionary grant is ongoing. Another tranche is coming up. There will be three. If any businesses haven’t applied, please encourage them to apply.
SHDC is not in a good place financially. There will be an emergency budget in September. Building Back Better workshops will be held over the next few months. Cllr McKay said that there is a lot of local concern as lockdown is being eased, and he will keep a watching brief.
150/20.2 Devon County Councillor
There have been no COVID-19 deaths in the Dartmouth area to date. There was a meeting with the NHS Trust this afternoon – it is monitoring the situation closely. Dartmouth has a recovery plan with Dartmouth Town Council and SHDC. It has a reopening plan with street cafes on the embankment. The Park and Ride will be open for the school holidays. The Seymour Drive planning application has been withdrawn.
151/20 Communications in relation to planning applications.
151/20.1 1025/20/FUL & 1026/20/LBC Downton Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JD. Householder and Listed building consent for construction of new garden store building and associated external works. Conditional Approval.
152/20 New planning/tree applications.
152/20.1 1105/20/HHO & 1106/20/LBC Dartside Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Householder application and Listed Building Consent for construction of ancillary garden building (summerhouse) within rear curtilage.
Object (Resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner, Cllr Quinn abstained)
Size and Shape of the Building
The building is dominant and inappropriate for its location in a Conservation Area and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The floor area is over twice that of the existing summer house. Because the proposed building would rise up on stilts at the front end to well over 4 metres at the eaves, the floor area alone greatly understates the physical impact of the proposed building.
The current garden house is a small garden building. The proposed building is a quite different separate unit of accommodation in the garden.
Impact on the AONB
The proposed building would be widely visible – including from the River Dart. It is DPC’s view that it has a negative impact on the character of the landscape, and that it fails the National Planning Policy Framework’s requirement to conserve and enhancing landscape of the AONB.
Overlooking and Loss of Privacy
The current Summerhouse is about 4.5 metres from the downhill (eastern) boundary. The proposed building would be located just over 1 metre from that boundary. It has a glazed opening and would look into the existing properties downhill.
Construction Method Statement
Given the proposal’s location on Manor Street, the Construction Method Statement needs to address important points such as timing of deliveries.
The meeting also commented that no effort has been made to reduce the negative impact of the building on its environment. It has been placed in the narrowest part of the garden. It could be built into the hillside. Relocation would remove the need to remove a tree.
152/20.2 1585/20/FUL Land Adjacent To Dartmouth Park And Ride Site Wessex Way Dartmouth TQ6 0JL. Construction of new two storey Health and Well-being Centre and associated external works.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Quinn, unanimous)
152/20.3 1650/20/LBC Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Retrospective listed building consent for conversion of swimming pool barn and proposed refurbishment works.
1649/20/HHO Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Retrospective householder application for conversion of swimming pool barn and proposed refurbishment works.
Support both of the above Chipton Barton applications (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner, unanimous)
152/20.4 1476/20/ARC Greenbank Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 4 and 5 of planning consent 3578/19/FUL.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner, unanimous)
153/20 Enforcement Cases
DPC considered giving requested feedback to SHDC on current cases.
154/20 Licencing Application
Variation to a premises licence application from Anchorstone Cafe, Manor Street, Dittisham, Dartmouth, TQ6 0EX. The variation application is to: Include the supply of alcohol for consumption off the premises during the current times authorised for on sales – Monday to Saturday 10:00am – midnight, Sunday 10:00am – 11:30pm.
Support on the conditions that the change is for the period of COVID-19 restrictions and any related problems with litter/rubbish are the Anchorstone Cafe’s responsibility (resolution proposed Cllr Lloyd and seconded Cllr Nightingale).
155/20 Consultations
- Local Government Association, Model Code of Conduct, Closes 17/8/20.
Comment deferred to the Agenda of a July Extraordinary meeting.
- England Tree Strategy. Closes 11 September 2020.
Comment deferred to the September Agenda. Tree Wardens Cllrs Faulkner and Green, and Cllr Nightingale will meet virtually to discuss and make recommendations.
156/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
156/20.1 Reports from Working Groups
The circulated Reports were noted, the revised description of working groups discussed, and the membership of groups reviewed. Cllr Tucker said that working groups are normally about three people and should take a majority view on way forward and on working group reports – not that of any one councillor. The Clerk is responsible for instructing contractors, or there will be confusion. It was agreed that the Communication WG would be activated as and when it was required. It can review whether the parish website is up to date. The Clerk will update the description of working groups.
156/20.2 Old Chapel Burial Ground
It was resolved that DPC will not take any action in response to the unauthorised realignment of a low retaining wall of the Old Chapel Burial Ground. Cllr Quinn abstained.
156/20.3 Ham Maintenance
It was unanimously resolved to take the same approach as South Hams District Council to re-open the playground. SHDC is not sanitising play equipment before reopening or during use. SHDC is not proposing to install hand sanitisers because in the Council’s experience to date, any provision of such a sanitiser is quickly stolen or vandalised.
156/20.4 Ham Events – Outdoor Swimming Society Dart 10K Event Booking Request
Cllr Tucker was removed from the meeting.
It was resolved to approve the request for events in 2021 and 2022, for 800 swimmers, with the qualifications/conditions that the disabled parking in the Football Field is essential for the event to take place, and that the risk assessment, site plan, and insurance will be required by 1 July in the relevant year.
157/20 Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Councillor Advocate Scheme
It was resolved that Cllr Lloyd would be Dittisham’s Advocate on the scheme, and to share an advocate with Blackawton if they wish to do so.
158/20 Car Parks
It was resolved to instruct the Clerk to arrange formal documentation of the existing arrangements for DPC to use SHDC’s RingGo and Permit systems.
159/20 Maintenance Contract
It was resolved to implement the contract’s requirement for relevant certificates of competency.
160/20 Capton Bus Shelter
It was resolved to accept the submission to purchase the shelter for £350, and the risk assessment provided by the purchaser.
161/20 Financial Matters
161/20.1 Consider approval of Financial Report
The report, which showed a total balance pf £60,116.87 and unearmarked reserves of £0.91, and the bank reconciliation were approved.
161/20.2 Insurance
It was resolved to accept the responses to business interruption and replacement value enquiries. The insurance broker confirmed that the policy only offers cover on a reinstatement as new basis, and the Business Interruption section is included as standard. The policy will cover loss of revenue due to damage, but due to theft only up to £500. Equipment breakdown cover would not apply to the car park machines.
161/20.3 Payments
It was resolved to approve the following payments. Cllr Faulkner declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in the final payment and abstained
- Ham Maintenance Contractor 2019/20 contract £4,700.00
- Car Park Supervisor Supervision March to July 2020 £400.00
- Came & Company Insurance £541.62
- Lengthsman Dec 2019 to May 2020 £100.00
- Cllr Faulkner Padlock and noticeboard materials £39.39
161/20.4 Clerk’s Expenses Reimbursement
It was resolved to approve expenses reimbursement claim CE35 £124.84.
161/20.5 2019/20 Internal Audit
The Auditor’s report was noted.
161/20.6 Review of the effectiveness of the system of internal control
It was noted that the review was approved by the June meeting.
161/20.7 2019/20 Audit Annual Governance Statement
It was resolved to approve the statement.
161/20.8 2019/20 Audit Accounting Statements.
The Statement was considered.
161/20.9 2019/20 Audit Accounting Statements
It was resolved to approve the Statements
161/20.10 2019/20 Audit Accounting Statements
Signature of the Accounting Statement by Cllr Tucker.
162/20 Clerk’s request for annual leave
The request for leave 7/7/20-21/8/20, 21/12-31/12/20, and to carry forward five days leave were approved
163/20 Correspondence
- DCC, Double yellow lines opposite level car park, Lines will be repainted as soon as possible.
164/20 Next Meeting
The next ordinary meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be held on 2 September 2020 at 7:00 pm.
An extraordinary meeting will take place on 22 July 2020 at 7:00 pm
The meeting closed at 21:37
