Jun 6, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held using public videoconferencing on Wednesday 3 June 2020 at 7:00 p.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 six members of the public.
98/20 Apologies
All councillors present.
99/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllr Quinn declared a personal interest in Item 9.1 Dartside planning application.
Cllr Tucker declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in Item 21 Outdoor Swimming Society Dart 10K event.
100/20 Supplementary COVID-19 Standing Orders
It was resolved to approve the Standing Orders.
101/20 Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 6 May 2020.
102/20 COVID-19 Response
Cllrs reviewed the project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information.
Cllr Quinn commended the work being done by Dartmouth Caring and The Red Lion. Cllr Green has noticed that social distancing is not being as well respected which is a concern.
Breaches of the lockdown guidelines can be reported to the Police.
130/20 Public Issues
130/20.1 Bonfires in the village
A member of the public raised their concern that they have observed a lot of bonfires in the village – around every other day. They said fires are mostly green waste. Their concerns are that this is antisocial, can have a negative effect on health, and releases carbon. They commented it is against the law to cause a nuisance and are aware there is a mechanism to report that to SHDC. DPC’s action was requested to prevent residents being disadvantaged.
Cllr Tucker asks residents to be careful and to think of others. Environmental Health at SHDC will come out. Professional landscape gardeners have a duty to take away the garden waste they produce, to the best of his knowledge.
It was agreed particulate pollution, is an issue, especially from green waste. Cllr Nightingale will provide further information.
It was suggested this is partly an education issue. It may be possible to help change habits. The green waste may be able to be allowed to decompose down, and might provide habitat. A community composting scheme supported by shredding by SHDC might be possible. It might be possible to have a local shredder. Sustainable Dittisham might be able to help develop a long-term solution. Cllrs Nightingale and Green, and A Thom will follow this up. The member of the public who raised the matter will send photos.
130/20.2 The Ham Toilets
A member of the public said they are interested DPC’s view on whether it prefers the toilets on The Ham remain closed or be re-opened. They said that Dittisham Sailing Club is considering whether to unlock its building. If The Ham toilets are re-opened it would ease pressure on DSC to re-open. It was noted that the Ham car park is getting busier.
This Agenda item was brought forward by the Chair.
Cllr McKay said it was SHDC’s intention to reopen the toilets in the next week. Toilets need to be cleaned and tested for legionnaires disease so this takes some time. Once opened they will be cleaned twice a day.
DPC took the view that it supports the re-opening of the toilets on The Ham.
Three more members of the public joined the meeting bringing the total to six.
131/20 Community Reports
131/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
Cllr McKay reported that he has been working to help local business as best he can. The new discretionary grant is good and positive – filling a gap. However, he thinks that grant will run out of money quickly.
The Overview and Scrutiny meeting tomorrow will be important to plan SHDC’s actions going forward.
The Government is looking at debating the structure of Local Government, with the possible creation of unitary councils.
Cllr Lloyd asked how DPC as a Parish Council feeds into the discussion. Cllr McKay said that the process will be decided by the Secretary of State.
131/20.2 Devon County Council Councillor
Cllr Hawkins gave his view that a unitary council might happen, and that they work, with the advantage that it is clear who is responsible. He said there should be perhaps four unitaries in Devon, because of its large size. He said it is very important that we protect parish and town councils. Cllr Hawkins said that this discussion is of secondary importance at this time.
The COVID-19 pandemic has cost DCC 85 million pounds and SHDC 8.5 million pounds. Both councils are hoping for extra funds from central government. SHDC is likely to have a special budget in September.
The planning application for the Dartmouth Health and Well Being Centre has been submitted.
The Fleet Care Home is now open in Dartmouth, on the former Riverview site.
Satellite imaging of local parishes is being discussed with Sustainable Dittisham. Cllr Hawkins suggested it would be more cost effective to image the entire AONB and the share the cost.
The Forestry Commission is not prosecuting the removal of trees at Seymour Drive in Dartmouth.
Councillor Hawkins emailed report stated:
Both at County and South Hams, Council Meetings are continuing and as the lock down changes both Councils are continuing to keep up with the daily changes that Central Government announce.
County are particularly concerned with the well-being and protection of children and vulnerable people.
With lock down and the continued self distancing these services are adapting to ensure our residents safety comes first.
Schools as we know have now re opened, changes to class rooms and staff safety have been paramount.
Parents can keep their children home if they feel that there are safety concerns or feel it is best for their families.
South Hams and Devon County have been given money from Central Government to pass onto business to help them over this period.
The most recent has been £2.3 million Discretionary Grants to help those businesses that have not been covered by previous grants.
South Hams are working with all other Districts to provide a Devon Wide scheme, these are in particularly aimed at Marine businesses and those that have no land based facilities.
The Government have also given South Hams £78,000 to help redesign town Centres temporarily to help with social distancing, widening pavements etc
Highways
Department of Transport have realised an emergency fund of £250 million for active travel.
Devon’s share is £338,000.
This is for quick wins installing segregated cycle lanes and widening pavements.
On a better note for rural areas such as ours the Government has confirmed that the allocated £27 million for Devon announced in the Autumn 2019 budget is still available.
This will be spent on repairs, resurfacing roads and work to prevent pot holes.
I also spoke recently to our local Police concerning Second Homes, Holiday lets.
If you know of anyone who should not be living in a Second Home or a Holiday let that has visitors please report it to the Police, they should not be here and certainly not staying over night.
The police will visit, warn the offenders and return the next day and give them a fine, if they have not gone by the second day the fine will be doubled.
We have been lucky locally so far and we must do all we can to protect our communities.
132/20 Communications from SHDC in relation to planning applications
The following decisions were noted:
- 0586/20/LBC Ferry Boat Inn Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed Building Consent for installation of 2no. replacement oak lintels in first floor prep room. Conditional Approval.
- 0167/20/LBC Darling Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed building consent for replacement windows. Conditional Approval.
Cllr Quinn left the meeting.
133/20 New planning applications
- 1130/20/HHO & 1131/20/LBC Dartside Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Replacement of two low-quality extensions and general refurbishment.
Support (unanimous resolution, proposed Cllr Anderson, seconded Cllr Faulkner).
134/20 Consultations
- DCC Reallocation of Roadspace for Active Travel
No comment will be made by DPC.
Cllr Quinn re-joined the meeting.
- DCC New funding for local bus service support. Closes 26 June 2020.
Cllr Hawkins said Dartmouth Town Council has submitted a bid to improve the bus service to Totnes and Torbay Hospitals. DPC agreed that it would take action to support this bid. Clerk to follow up.
Cllr Lloyd left the meeting temporarily.
135/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
135/20.1 Reports from Working Groups
It was agreed that Groups will submit a summary of the previous year for the July meeting.
135/20.2 Ham Maintenance Working Group
The Report on works undertaken and required was noted.
136/20 Devon Air Ambulance Trust
It was noted that DPC has received notice of a phased reintroduction of services using aircraft modified to protect from COVID-19, and a courtesy request for approval of night training flights.
137/20 Habitat Review
The proposed revised process, working with Sustainable Dittisham’s habitat group instead of Devon Wildlife Trust, and the proposed plan were noted and agreed.
138/20 Dittisham Beach Life Buoy
It was confirmed that replacement is required. The Clerk will respond to the Salcombe Harbour Master.
139/20 Vacancy for a Parish Councillor
Cllr Lloyd re-joined the meeting.
It was agreed that the vacancy for one parish councillor will be re-advertised. A Zoom videoconference meeting will be held on Wednesday 24 June at 6 pm if there are candidates to interview.
140/20 Financial Matters
140/20.1 Financial Report.
It was resolved to adopt the Report which showed a balance of £71,786.23 and unearmarked reserves of £14,710.76.
Cllr Tucker said that the Finance Committee does not think that the car park supervision arrangements need to be changed. The Clerk said that an extraordinary meeting could be used to discuss this formally if needed.
140/20.2 Payments Due and Received
It was resolved to make the following payments:
- Village Hall, Hire Feb-April 2019, £79.20
- SHDC, Business rates The Level car park, £2,694.60
- SHDC, Business rates Ham car park, £2,844.30
- OSS, Refund 2020 Hire, £6,750.00
- Maintenance Contractor, Ham retaining wall and other works as invoiced, £1,481.00
Payment of the insurance policy was deferred to the July meeting pending a reply from the broker.
140/20.3 DPC Lloyds account
It was resolved that forty five thousand pounds would be transferred to DPC’s Lloyds account by cheque. The Lloyds account is used to make DPC’s payments by electronic funds transfer.
140/20.4 Asset Register
Consideration of whether to set a value beneath which items will not be added to the Register was deferred pending further information. Whether insurance should be based on a depreciated or replacement value will also be reviewed prior to renewal of the policy.
140/20.5 Review of Risk Assessment and Statement of Internal Controls
It was resolved to approve the documents as circulated.
140/20.6 Village Hall Annual Report
DPC agreed to the Village Hall Management Committee’s request that the Report be made in the Autumn when the works are finished, instead of now as previously agreed. DPC will expect a report for its 7 October 2020 meeting.
140/20.7 Maintenance contract
It was unanimously resolved to approve a one year extension to the contract. This is an option within the existing contract.
140/20.8 Parish Lengthsman contract
It was resolved to add to the infrastructure improvement works funded by a DCC grant, subject to the pending response from DCC on the terms of the grant.
141/20 South West Water
The recent works to clean membranes and their impact on The Ham car park were noted. It was resolved to accept the proposal from SWW that SWW pay for 12 car park spaces for three days.
142/20 Correspondence
Received
22/5/20, HMRC, VAT reply
27 & 29/5/20, SWW, Works and use of the car park
Draft ‘Things to do’ booklet, Dartmouth Caring
Sent
20/5/20, HMRC, VAT number and registration
22/5/20, SWW, Works and use of the car park
143/20 Next meeting
The next ordinary meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be held on 1 July 2020 at 7:00 pm.
144/20 Outdoor Swimming Society Dart 10K Event
It was resolved to close the meeting to members of the press and the public because of the commercial sensitivity of the matter.
Members of the public, and Cllrs Tucker, McKay and Hawkins left the meeting
The closed discussion agreed DPC’s approach to future Outdoor Swimming Society’s Dart 10K event hires of The Ham.
The meeting closed at 21:21
May 14, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held using public videoconferencing on Wednesday 1 April 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
The Agenda was reduced to necessary business until a legal basis to hold virtual meetings is created by Government.
DPC Financial Regulations permit the Clerk, in conjunction with Chairman of Council, to authorise expenditure for any items total up to £500.
63/20 Apologies
All councillors present.
64/20 Declaration of Interests
None declared.
65/20 COVID-19 Response
The project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information was reviewed. Councillors reported on the areas they are supporting. A positive response has been received from residents. There are many other active existing networks. Councillors’ activities have included shopping, pharmacy collections, phone IT support, and supporting creation of small local support groups. Currently, identified needs are all being met. Food deliveries for those identified by the NHS as being very vulnerable are at Follaton House for delivery. Capton has started a food bank box for Dartmouth Caring and the Community Chest. Dartmouth Caring is doing phone calls and deliveries of food – including meals on wheels and for the food bank.
Devon County Council has a fund to support local COVID 19 responses.
DPC councillors and the Dittisham Charity will follow up the need for local funding.
66/20 Public Issues
No issues raised.
67/20 Community Reports
67/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
Activities have been focussed on supporting local communities’ COVID 19 responses. Efforts are well organised. The response has been an amazing thing to witness.
Citizens Advice can assist people to access grants and get help. This information is diffuse. Please contact Cllr McKay for help if you have any questions.
67/20.2 Devon County Councillor
As for Cllr McKay, activities have been focussed on the COVID 19 response. The local DCC Highways Neighbourhood Officer is out working. The Dartmouth Foodbank is open on Wednesdays and can get food to people any time of the week
68/20 Reduced Dittisham Parish Council Income
Cllr Tucker discussed the loss of DPC’s car park income secondary to the response to the coronavirus outbreak. He said that DPC will need to be very careful with its spending. DPC can’t increase taxes to cover the deficit.
69/20 Communications in relation to planning/tree applications.
- 3578/19/FUL Greenbank Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of replacement dwelling. Conditional Approval.
- 3864/19/ARC Darling Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 2 of planning consent 0479/19/VAR. Discharge of condition Approved.
- 1048/19/HHO & 1049/19/LBC 2 Watermans Cottage Manor Street Dittisham Devon TQ6 0EX. Householder and Listed Building Consent applications for rear extension to listed cottage with associated landscaping and new garden room. Conditional Approval.
- 3061/19/FUL Little Capton Capton Dartmouth TQ6 0JE. Retrospective application for change of use of an agricultural building to an eco-friendly laundry and erection of associated lean-to extension. Withdrawn.
70/20 New Planning Applications.
- 0504/20/VAR Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) following grant of planning consent 2161/17/OPA to enable hotel and residential accommodation switch between the Waterside and Philips building and update quay walldrawings and associated conditions 7, 10, 10, 12, 19 and 26 and administrative changes required to conditions 1, 3, 4, 17, 18, 22, 25,28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 36, 41, 42, 43, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 60 reflecting approved discharge of conditions.
- 0529/20/FUL Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Full planning permission for 1,258sqm GEA Hotel floorspace within void space proposed under Planning Application 0504/20/VAR.
- 0528/20/FUL Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Creation of 5no. residential units (use class C3) within void space proposed under Planning Application 0504/20/VAR.
It was agreed that DPC will respond regarding management of the lighting from the site. Light pollution from the development will impact the River Dart and the AONB.
71/20 Consultations
- Draft North East, draft North West, draft South East and draft South West Marine Plans. Closes 6 April 2020.
Cllr Anderson will write a response supporting the Plan.
72/20 Willow Dome Project
It was decided to review in the Autumn, the proposal to install a 3 metre diameter willow dome on the former log walk site on The Ham (£406).
73/20 Financial Matters
73/20.1 Financial Report
The Report showed a balance of £85,257.62 and unearmarked reserves of £29,597.03
73/20.2 Payments Made, Due and Received
It was resolved to agree the following payments:
- Village Hall, Jan and Feb 2020, £79.20
- Kingsbridge Websites, Website accessibility report, £160
- RD and HJ Rowden Limited, digger work The Ham, £516 (incl. VAT)
- Community Heartbeat Trust, Annual Support year 2, two machines, £396
- Devon Communities Together, Annual Subscription, £50
The Clerk was asked to investigate deferral of VAT payments. The Finance Committee will review DPC’s financial position in three weeks time.
74/20 Next Meeting
The next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 6 May 2020 at 7:00 pm.
Apr 15, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held using public videoconferencing on Wednesday 1 April 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
The Agenda was reduced to necessary business until a legal basis to hold virtual meetings is created by Government.
DPC Financial Regulations permit the Clerk, in conjunction with Chairman of Council, to authorise expenditure for any items total up to £500.
63/20 Apologies
All councillors present.
64/20 Declaration of Interests
None declared.
65/20 COVID-19 Response
The project to ensure that residents and visitors have access to support and information was reviewed. Councillors reported on the areas they are supporting. A positive response has been received from residents. There are many other active existing networks. Councillors’ activities have included shopping, pharmacy collections, phone IT support, and supporting creation of small local support groups. Currently, identified needs are all being met. Food deliveries for those identified by the NHS as being very vulnerable are at Follaton House for delivery. Capton has started a food bank box for Dartmouth Caring and the Community Chest. Dartmouth Caring is doing phone calls and deliveries of food – including meals on wheels and for the food bank.
Devon County Council has a fund to support local COVID 19 responses.
DPC councillors and the Dittisham Charity will follow up the need for local funding.
66/20 Public Issues
No issues raised.
67/20 Community Reports
67/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
Activities have been focussed on supporting local communities’ COVID 19 responses. Efforts are well organised. The response has been an amazing thing to witness.
Citizens Advice can assist people to access grants and get help. This information is diffuse. Please contact Cllr McKay for help if you have any questions.
67/20.2 Devon County Councillor
As for Cllr McKay, activities have been focussed on the COVID 19 response. The local DCC Highways Neighbourhood Officer is out working. The Dartmouth Foodbank is open on Wednesdays and can get food to people any time of the week
68/20 Reduced Dittisham Parish Council Income
Cllr Tucker discussed the loss of DPC’s car park income secondary to the response to the coronavirus outbreak. He said that DPC will need to be very careful with its spending. DPC can’t increase taxes to cover the deficit.
69/20 Communications in relation to planning/tree applications.
- 3578/19/FUL Greenbank Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of replacement dwelling. Conditional Approval.
- 3864/19/ARC Darling Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 2 of planning consent 0479/19/VAR. Discharge of condition Approved.
- 1048/19/HHO & 1049/19/LBC 2 Watermans Cottage Manor Street Dittisham Devon TQ6 0EX. Householder and Listed Building Consent applications for rear extension to listed cottage with associated landscaping and new garden room. Conditional Approval.
- 3061/19/FUL Little Capton Capton Dartmouth TQ6 0JE. Retrospective application for change of use of an agricultural building to an eco-friendly laundry and erection of associated lean-to extension. Withdrawn.
70/20 New Planning Applications.
- 0504/20/VAR Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Variation of condition 2 (approved plans) following grant of planning consent 2161/17/OPA to enable hotel and residential accommodation switch between the Waterside and Philips building and update quay walldrawings and associated conditions 7, 10, 10, 12, 19 and 26 and administrative changes required to conditions 1, 3, 4, 17, 18, 22, 25,28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 36, 41, 42, 43, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 60 reflecting approved discharge of conditions.
- 0529/20/FUL Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Full planning permission for 1,258sqm GEA Hotel floorspace within void space proposed under Planning Application 0504/20/VAR.
- 0528/20/FUL Noss Marina Bridge Road Kingswear TQ6 0EA. Creation of 5no. residential units (use class C3) within void space proposed under Planning Application 0504/20/VAR.
It was agreed that DPC will respond regarding management of the lighting from the site. Light pollution from the development will impact the River Dart and the AONB.
71/20 Consultations
- Draft North East, draft North West, draft South East and draft South West Marine Plans. Closes 6 April 2020.
Cllr Anderson will write a response supporting the Plan.
72/20 Willow Dome Project
It was decided to review in the Autumn, the proposal to install a 3 metre diameter willow dome on the former log walk site on The Ham (£406).
73/20 Financial Matters
73/20.1 Financial Report
The Report showed a balance of £85,257.62 and unearmarked reserves of £29,597.03
73/20.2 Payments Made, Due and Received
It was resolved to agree the following payments:
- Village Hall, Jan and Feb 2020, £79.20
- Kingsbridge Websites, Website accessibility report, £160
- RD and HJ Rowden Limited, digger work The Ham, £516 (incl. VAT)
- Community Heartbeat Trust, Annual Support year 2, two machines, £396
- Devon Communities Together, Annual Subscription, £50
The Clerk was asked to investigate deferral of VAT payments. The Finance Committee will review DPC’s financial position in three weeks time.
74/20 Next Meeting
The next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will take place on 6 May 2020 at 7:00 pm.
Mar 11, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 March 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Cllrs Faulkner (meeting Chair), Bond, and Green, Devon County Cllr Hawkins, six members of the public, and A Thom (Clerk).
43/20 Election of Chair
It was resolved to elect Cllr Faulkner to chair the meeting.
44/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllr Tucker, Anderson, Lloyd, Nightingale, and Quinn.
45/20 Declaration of interests
Cllr Faulkner declared a personal interest in Item 11, Village Hall Building Works.
46/20 Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the minutes of the meeting held on 5 February 2020.
47/20 Public Issues
47/20.1 Application to DCC for a new Public Right of Way in the Village.
Five members of the public were present to request the Parish Council’s support for an application to register as a new Public Right of Way a former pedestrian access between Riverside Road, just west of the Football Field, to The Level. The application was made by residents to DCC in 2018, eighteen people signed a form describing their historical use of the route. Use of up to 21 years was described to the meeting. The objection was also raised that the current lock is dangerous and should be a fire brigade padlock. One Orchard Park resident noted that Orchard Park has four parking spaces for six houses, with residents including people with children and pushchairs, making the current lack of pedestrian access to Riverside Road impractical.
47/20.2 Householders’ Sensor Activated Lights
A resident raised their concern that many sensor activated lights in the village illuminate the roads. They said that this is not legal and that the lights need to be adjusted so that they illuminate only the private property, and requested DPC take action.
47/20.3 Request from Blackberry Cottage for Key to Lockable Post
The householder had provided a written statement prior to the meeting. They said they were pleased that the lockable post on the access between the beach and The Ham has been reinstated. They said that they believed that the hard between their gate and the beach was put in by a previous owner. They said that they don’t let their Cottage as holiday accommodation, so they would be the only users of the key if one was provided.
48/20 Community Reports
48/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of Cllr McKay.
48/20.2 Devon County Council Councillor
Cllr Hawkins explained that he had met with residents in December last year to discuss the request for a new public right of way in the village. He arranged for residents to come to the meeting of DPC, because when the request is considered by DCC it is important whether the Parish Council supports it. Cllr Hawkins suggested presenting the request in a meeting with MP Anthony Mangnall in his Friday surgery in Totnes. The Clerk will send historical minutes of this matter to Cllr Hawkins and will put this matter on the April Agenda for DPC to consider.
DCC’s annual budget increases its Council Tax demand by the maximum of 3.9 recurring percent. Storm Dennis did two to three hundred thousand pounds damage to roads. Cllr Hawkins has had several meetings with a group trying to improve the transport system in the Dartmouth area. The group is hoping to access some of a pot of one million pounds, to spend on a community bus service linking Dartmouth, communities and Totnes, with the Willows. The planning application for the Dartmouth Health and Well Being Centre will be submitted later this month. The bottom level of the Riverview Nursing Home is being rented for use as a small care home. Use of the Dartmouth Food Bank has rocketed and they are seeing 12-15 cases per week. A small police station office will be located next door to the Ambulance station. The Mayflower 400th anniversary commemoration plans are progressing well.
Cllr Green raised his concern about the proposed loss of the red diesel subsidy. Cllr Hawkins advised that this is a matter to raise with Anthony Mangnall MP.
Cllr Faulkner said that the teardrop road marking at the Sportsmans Arms was removed during the recent roadworks and needs to be replaced. The Clerk will advise the DCC Neighbourhood Officer.
49/20 Communications in relation to planning/tree applications.
The following communications were noted:
49/20.1 3857/19/LBC Lilac Cottage The Level Dittisham TQ6 0ES. Listed Building Consent for minor amendments to approved scheme 0277/19/LBC for renovation of existing cottage. Conditional Approval.
49/20.2 4056/19/HHO River Creek Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Retrospective householder application for cantilevered balcony with metal balustrading to accommodate outward opening doors on first floor extension (approved 18/1490/09/F). Conditional Approval.
49/20.3 0235/20/NMM Cott Farm Barn Dittisham TQ6 0JQ. Non material amendment to approved application 18/1015/09/F. Conditional Approval.
49/20.4 0618/20/TEX Firebird, The Level, Dittisham, Devon, TQ6 0ES. T1: Elm – fell, succumbed to Dutch Elm Disease. Grant Exemption.
50/20 New planning/tree applications.
50/20.1 0167/20/LBC Darling Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed building consent for replacement windows
No comment will be made by DPC because Councillors don’t understand the application.
50/20.2 0586/20/LBC Ferry Boat Inn, Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed Building Consent for installation of 2no. replacement oak lintels in first floor prep room.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Green, seconded Cllr Bond).
50/20.3 0583/20/CLE Barberry Farm Dittisham TQ6 0JA. Lawful development certificate for existing use for breach of the agricultural occupancy condition.
DPC does not have factual evidence to provide.
50/20.4 0319/20/CLE Land at SX 861 514 North of Seymour Drive Dartmouth. Lawful development certificate for use of land in breach of condition 7 and the non-application of conditions 6 and 8 of 15/1790/98/F which required the laying out, landscaping and use as an area of open grassland accessible to the public.
DPC does not have factual evidence to provide.
51/20 Consultations
- Coastal Access – Improvements to public access along the Devon coast between Cremyll and Kingswear – Report to Secretary of State – Ref: CKW2626. Closes 11 March 2020.
This doesn’t affect Dittisham.
- Draft North East, draft North West, draft South East and draft South West Marine Plans. Closes 6 April 2020.
Cllr Anderson will provide comment to 1 April meeting.
- Local Green Space Development Plan Document Designation Criteria for the Plymouth Policy Area. Closes 23/3/20.
No comment.
- SHDC, Request for feedback The Operational Carbon Reduction Plan, The South Hams Climate Change and Biodiversity Action Plan, and any suggested additional actions, by 31 March 2020
Referred to Sustainable Dittisham.
52/20 St Georges Church Maintenance Grant
Consideration of this application for a grant was deferred to the 1 April meeting, where it is expected there will be more councillors present to make a decision.
53/20 Request from Blackberry Cottage for Key to Lockable Post
Cllr Faulkner summarised the matter and said that historically keys were provided to Blackberry Cottage.
It was resolved to issue Blackberry Cottage with a key to the post.
54/20 Village Hall Building Works Project & Risk Register
Cllr Faulkner reported that the Village Hall Management Committee’s concerns about the Risk Register remain. The VHMC will provide a monthly report on the building works to the Parish Council but it won’t keep a Risk Register. The VHMC aims to finish building works by the end of August and a paper will be distributed shortly. The Party Wall Award has been served and agreed.
DPC welcomes the monthly report.
55/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
55/20.1 Use of The Ham Task & Finish Group
The recommendation to defer the Report to the April meeting was confirmed.
55/20.2 Playground Working Group
It was resolved to accept the quote to employ a contractor to remove the post footings for the former cradle seat swing (£140). It was resolved to also accept the quote for works to clear the ditch on north side of car park where it has silted up, scrape edges of the car park and Ham Lane to find existing hard core, and to level the small site for installation of the new bench seat (£290).
55/20.3 Ham Maintenance Working Group
It was resolved to accept the proposal to reinstall The Ham noticeboard on concrete spurs, at a cost of £54 plus one hour of maintenance contractor’s time. Cllr Faulkner will cut off the damaged piece of each of the two legs. Cllr Green will deliver the noticeboard to The Ham car park. Cllr Faulkner will need half an hour to bolt the concrete posts on. There will be lookouts to ensure that there is no risk to the general public.
56/20 Requests for Use of The Ham
56/20.1 South West Gaffers
The request for members to again camp on The Ham / stay in campervans in The Ham car park from Friday 14 August to leave by Monday 17 August, to participate in Dittisham Regatta as detailed in the request letter was approved.
57/20 Drainage Maintenance Responsibilities
This item was moved up the Agenda at the Chair’s discretion. Cllr Hawkins advised that the DCC Highways & Traffic Management Group Manager’s letter regarding drainage maintenance responsibilities does not represent a change in policy. Chapter 8 safety requirements mean that landowners can’t maintain drains on the highway.
58/20 Requests for Use of The Ham
58/20.1 Dittisham and Cornworthy Summer Ball, 8 August 2020
The decision regarding a request to use The Ham for a Summer Ball was deferred, because councillors view was that the number of councillors present to make this decision was insufficient.
59/20 Financial Matters
59/20.1 Financial Report
The report which showed a balance of £82,667.28 and unearmarked reserves of £27,306.69 was read. DPC is aware this is a high level of reserves. The Clerk advised that DPC does not yet know if it will be required to make retrospective VAT payments. The forecast car park 2020 income used in the 2020/21 budget may be reduced by the effects of coronavirus.
59/20.2 Payments
The following payments were approved:
- Kingsbridge Websites Hosting package, backups, updates 12 months, £120.00
- Tozer & Co printers, DSC permits, £219.28
- Maintenance contractor, Invoice for extra work requested, £326.11
59/20.3 Clerk Expenses Reimbursement CE33
The invoice for £74.94 was approved.
59/20.4 Clerk overtime claim DPC18
The overtime claim for ten hours overtime worked in January was approved.
59/20.5 Quote to Program Car Park Machines with a VAT number
Expenditure for Metric to program both machines with DPC’s VAT number as quoted (£220.68 VAT inclusive) was approved.
59/20.6 Level Car Park Extra Loan Repayment
It was resolved to defer the planned extra loan repayment until VAT registration is established. It is not yet known whether DPC will have a VAT debt to pay. In addition coronavirus may reduce the 2020 car park income.
59/20.7 Pay on entry – The Ham Toilets
To proposal to offer SHDC £1,600 annually to remove the pay on entry from The Ham toilets was deferred to the May meeting. The Clerk was asked to source SHDC’s 2019/20 income figures.
60/20 Website Accessibility Requirements
The requirements were noted. DPC confirmed the view that the full check is a disproportionate financial burden given DPC’s income. The expenditure for DPC’s website provider to carry out the basic check of whether the Parish website meets the international WCAG 2.1 AA standard and to provide the information needed for the Accessibility Statement was approved (£160).
61/20 Dates of the Annual Parish Meeting and the Annual Meeting of the Council
The Annual Parish Meeting will take place on 21 April. The Annual Meeting of the Parish Council will be on 6 May at 6:30 pm, immediately before the ordinary meeting.
62/20 Next Meeting
The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 1 April 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
The meeting closed at 21:08.
Feb 19, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 5 February 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Cllrs Tucker (Chair), Bond, Faulkner, Lloyd, and Nightingale were present as were South Hams District Councillor McKay, Devon County Cllr Hawkins, A Thom (Clerk), and five members of the public.
25/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllrs Anderson, Green, and Quinn.
26/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllrs Tucker and Faulkner declared personal interests in the Village Hall Items, 9 and 10, as representative members of the Village Hall Management Committee. Cllr Bond declared a personal interest in item 12.3, Summer Ball.
27/20 Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the minutes of the meetings held on 8 January and 21 January 2020.
28/20 Public Issues
28/20.1 Village Hall Building Works
A representative of the VHMC expressed their disappointment on the failure of DPC to sign the form to appoint and authorise a party wall surveyor. Cllr Tucker responded to use of the word failure – explaining that DPC had to take advice which has now been received and noting that DPC could have been asked earlier.
28/20.2 Maintenance Grant to St George’s Church
A representative of the Church updated DPC on their research regarding whether DPC can legally make a grant to the Church. The Exeter Diocesan Registry Legal Office advises “that the provisions of the Localism Act 2011 and the Local Government Act 1972 allow for all authorities, including parish councils, to contribute to the upkeep of church property under certain circumstances – mainly related to the public benefit achieved”.
28/20.3 Owner of Kiln Lyon
They thanked the Parish for its welcome and support.
29/20 Community Reports
29/20.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC has proposed a budget of £400,000 over three years for climate change projects which will be presented to the full council for approval. Funds will be sourced from reserves. Community groups will be able to apply. SHDC has run a good and interesting workshop on Gypsies and Travellers. SHDC will be responding to the government consultation on Police powers in this context by objecting, because moving people on is not a solution. SHDC is looking for places can be used for Traveller camps. SHDC will be consulting on asset based community development. Councillors will be trained on the new waste system in February and Cllr McKay will report back to the March meeting of DPC. The review of the Localities team is ongoing. There will be a two year post, shared with West Devon Borough Council, for a Climate Change Officer.
29/20.2 Devon County Councillor
Eight councils across Devon are working together on climate change.
Cllr Hawkins has met with residents about a Schedule 14 application for a new public right of way. It is necessary to prove at least 12 years of use. A Parishioner will talk to DPC’s March meeting about the application.
The planning application for the Dartmouth Health and Wellbeing Centre is imminent. The West Dart development documents are signed and it will start construction in spring or early summer. It is likely that there will be a nursing home and also a hotel as part of the development.
Cllr Tucker noted that local roads are in a poor state of road because of rain and asked about the signed road surfacing. Cllr Lloyd said that the road from Kingston to Fingalls is almost impassable. It is needed for local access.
Cllr Nightingale asked about plans for EV charging points. Cllr Hawkins said there are two points planned for each major town and four for Dartmouth. Cllr Tucker asked if Parish Councils can work with this project. Cllr Hawkins will email Cllr Nightingale the details of a Dartmouth resident who is leading on this.
30/20 Communications in Relation to Planning/Tree Applications
- TPO – Ref: 1215229. South Hams District Council Parish of Dittisham No. 997 Tree Preservation Order 2019. Sunnybank Manor Street Dittisham. Confirmed as Served.
- 3745/19/HHO Sunbeams Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Householder application for proposed alterations adding a new extension and providing associated improved landscaping and parking. Conditional Approval.
31/20 New Planning Applications.
31/20.1 0045/20/HHO Little Croft, The Level, Dittisham, TQ6 0ES. Householder application for rear extension to dwelling with roof terrace.
It was asked whether all of the building which is already built complies with the previous approved planning application. Support with a comment regarding historical compliance (resolution proposed Cllr Faulkner, seconded Cllr Bond).
31/20.2 3578/19/FUL Greenbank Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. READVERTISEMENT (Revised plans received) Demolition of existing dwelling and erection of replacement dwelling.
Support with comments on reducing light pollution and requesting a method statement, as made on the previous application (resolution proposed Cllr Faulkner, seconded Cllr Lloyd).
31/20.3 0196/20/LBC Lilac Cottage The Level Dittisham TQ6 0ES. Listed building consent for minor amendments to approved scheme 0277/19/LBC in conjunction with in progress application 3857/19/LBC for renovation of existing cottage.
Support with DPC’s standard comment on reducing light pollution (resolution proposed Cllr Faulkner, seconded Cllr Nightingale)
31/20.4 0122/20/ARC Darling Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 5, 6 and 7 of planning consent 0902/17/LBC.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Faulkner, seconded Cllr Lloyd).
31/20.5 0277/20/FUL Former site of Kiln Lyon Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY. Application for two storey dwelling to replace existing bungalow with associated landscaping and detached double garage with parking.
Support with DPC’s standard comment on reducing light pollution (resolution proposed Cllr Tucker, seconded Cllr Lloyd).
31/20.6 0204/20/LBC & 4071/19/FUL Bruckton Shippon Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Listed building and householder consent for change of use of outbuilding/stables into new self-contained 1 bed ancillary accommodation.
Support (resolution proposed Cllr Faulkner, seconded Cllr Bond).
31/20.7 New premises licence from Snark LTD for Boat based at Creekside Boatyard, Old Mill Creek, Dartmouth, TQ6 0HN. The application is for: the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises Monday to Sunday between 10AM and 11PM. No comment.
31/20.8 New premises licence from Jasmine Harvey for The Kiosk, Coronation Park, Dartmouth, TQ6 9RR The application is for: the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises between the hours of 0800-2000 Monday to Sunday. No comment.
32/20 Consultations
- Government consultation on ‘Strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments’. Closes 19 February 2020. No comment.
- Coastal Access – Improvements to public access along the Devon coast between Cremyll and Kingswear – Report to Secretary of State – Ref: CKW2626. Closes 11 March 2020. Deferred to 4 March Agenda.
- Draft North East, draft North West, draft South East and draft South West Marine Plans. Closes 6 April 2020. Deferred to 4 March Agenda.
33//20 Signature of Surveyor’s Statutory Appointment and Authority Party Wall etc. Act 1996 Form
Legal advice received by DPC was considered. It was resolved to sign the proposed Surveyor’s statutory appointment and authority form as formally requested by the Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee.
34/20 Village Hall Building Works Project & Risk Register
Consideration of a proposed Risk Register, and the proposal that the Register be kept and updated monthly by the Working Party for the project and used by a representative from the Working Party to report briefly to each monthly meeting of DPC was deferred to the 4 March meeting of DPC.
35/20 Reports from Councillors with Specific Responsibilities / External Forums
35/20.1 Use of The Ham Task & Finish Group
DPC resolved to defer the adoption of the Report and its Recommendations to allow further discussion (proposed Cllr Tucker, seconded Cllr Faulkner).
35/20.2 Ham Maintenance Working Group
DPC resolved to approve the proposed location of the new bench near the path to the Sailing Club.
DPC resolved to approve costs associated with DPC’s maintenance contractor work on the installation of the bench.
DPC resolved to approve maintenance works to The Ham retaining wall as quoted. It was asked that alternatives to the use of weed killer chemicals are considered.
35/20.3 Parish Lengthsman Arrangements
DPC resolved to adopt the Report and its Recommendations, with the removal from the agreement of the sentence which referred to the approach taken be the previous lengthsman.
36/20 Requests for Use of The Ham
36/20.1 South West Gaffers
Consideration of the request for members to again camp on The Ham / stay in campervans in The Ham car park from Friday 14 August to leave by Monday 17 August, to participate in Dittisham Regatta was deferred to the meeting on 4 March pending agreement of policy and documents on the use and hire of The Ham.
36/20.2 Ditsum Dash Sunday 16 August – Children’s Fun Run and Adult 5K Run
The courtesy notice that the event will again start and finish on The Ham was noted. The organisers will be reminded that they are responsible for any insurance required.
36/20.3 Dittisham and Cornworthy Summer Ball, 8 August 2020
Consideration of the request to use The Ham for a Summer Ball was deferred to the meeting on 4 March pending agreement of policy and documents on the use and hire of The Ham. Cllrs Faulkner and Lloyd will meet with the hirers in before the 4 March meeting.
37/20 Ham Noticeboard
Cllr Faulkner objected the proposal to modify and reinstall the noticeboard, and requested that the existing noticeboard is reinstalled with new feet. A costed proposal was requested for the 4 March meeting.
38/20 Jubilee Steps
DPC considered options available to improve safety of the steps/path. It was agreed to ask SHDC if it can increase its cleaning of the steps, to ask the Parish Lengthsman to use a salt based weed treatment four time a year, to ask property owners if DPC can install ‘slippery when wet’ warning signs on property at the top and bottom of the steps on the Rock Cottage garden side, and for the Clerk and Cllr Faulkner to develop a proposal for a handrail down the Rock Cottage garden side of the steps/path.
39/20 VE Day Commemoration 8 May 2020
DPC will ask members of the community if they wish to make any arrangements to commemorate VE Day.
40/20 Financial Matters
40/20.1 Consider approval of Financial Report.
It was resolved to approve the report which showed a balance of £72,691.56 and unearmarked reserves of £17,330.97.
40/20.2 Approval of Payments
The following payments were approved:
- Kingsbridge Websites, Updates 11/19-1/20, £30.00
- South West Water, Quay Standpipe 14/9/19-17/1/20, £29.15
- M Faulkner, Reimbursement Trees for The Ham, £51.87
41/20 Correspondence
- DHNA public meeting to discuss improvements to access on the North Embankment. 06 Feb 2020 at 18:30-20:00 in the Guild Hall Dartmouth.
- 30/1/20 From owner of the willow removed as requested by DCC because of it restricting access to the footbridge across the Mill Creek stream. They are hoping replant in a nearby, but more appropriate location.
Cllr Faulkner, DPC’s Tree Warden, asked that the owner replant three trees as is standard trees policy, at minimum.
- 29/1/20, Torbay Council REVISED PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION** Notification of Appeal: Land To The South Of White Rock, Adjacent To Brixham Road (AKA Inglewood), Paignton (P/2017/1133)
42/20 Next Meeting
It was confirmed that the next meeting of Dittisham Parish Council will be on 4 March 2020 at 7:00 pm.
The meeting closed at 21 24.
Feb 2, 2020 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall on Tuesday 21 January 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
21/20 Apologies
Apologies were received from Cllrs Quinn, Green and Anderson
22/20 Declaration of Interests
Cllr Tucker declared a personal interest in the Village Hall Management Committee because of his role representing Dittisham United Football Club and DPC on the VHMC.
Cllr Faulkner a personal interest in the Village Hall Management Committee because of his role representing the Bowling Club.
23/20 Village Hall Building Works Project & Risk Register
Cllrs considered a proposed Risk Register, and the proposal that the Register be kept and updated monthly by the Working Party for the project and used by a representative from the Working Party to report briefly to each monthly meeting of DPC.
A decision on this proposal was deferred to the February Agenda.
24/20 Signature of Surveyor’s Statutory Appointment and Authority Party Wall etc. Act 1996 Form
Cllrs considered the request from the Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee that DPC sign the proposed Surveyor’s statutory appointment and authority form.
It was resolved to defer this decision pending receipt of further legal advice. (Resolution carried 3:1, with Cllr Faulkner voting against.) DPC has been advised by Devon Association of Local Councils that it is currently unclear whether DPC would be acting lawfully in proceeding and recommending a decision be delayed until further advice is received. The decision by DPC to delay its decision is not due to a lack of support for the project.
The meeting closed at 17:28.
