APPROVED Minutes 2025 December 3

Dec 12, 2025 | Minutes

APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Cornworthy Village Hall on Wednesday 3 December 2025 at 7:00pm

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), J Green, N Green, Hawkes, Pope & Unitt were present, as was D.Cllr McKay for part of the meeting, C Radford (Clerk). No members of the public were present.
Apologies: Cllrs Neale, Golding

Public Forum No members of the public were present.

1. Apologies Were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests No interests were declared on items on the agenda. It was noted that the Parish Council is the applicant on application 3366/25/TCA for discussion under item 9.2.
3. Approval of Minutes:
It was RESOLVED to approve of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on November 5 2025 without amendments.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor
– Local Government Reorganisation proposals have been submitted, and Officers can return to ‘business as usual’.
– It was reported that the police have provided an email address to use should the Parish Council have any queries about the recent fire on land in the Parish.
– It was noted that the National Emergency Briefing on Climate and Nature took place in took place in London on 27^th November, and the D.Cllr reviewing the material available online.
– Community Transport meetings are ongoing between officers, members and the local MP, with a focus on solving community transport issues in the South Hams.
– The District Council’ Markets Food and agriculture officer is working with markets in Ivybridge, Salcombe and Kingsbridge to help them become more vibrant in order to support the local green economy.
-Work on Street Cleaning is ongoing, working on publishing schedules for street cleaning to make the process more transparent. An email address for the Street Cleaning team has been provided that the Clerk will forward to the Maintenance Working Group.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor No report
5. Councillor Vacancy It was confirmed that a meeting with candidates will take place on December 15, leading to cooption.
6. Financial Matters
6.1 Receipts and Payments between meetings The following receipts and payments were noted:
– Income from Devon County Council invoice 23 for P3 Grant = £180 no VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) Machine Receipts from The Ham Car Park = £2372.85 including VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) Machine Receipts from The Level Car Park = £1319.95 including VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) from bank interest (Natwest) = 326.41 no VAT
– Income in Q2 (July – Sept) from bank interest (Lloyds) = £20.71 no VAT
– Payment 2511_11 to Lloyds Bank for bank fees = £4.25 no VAT
– Payment 2511_12 to HMRC for VAT return Q2 = £26.61
6.2 December Payments It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:
– Payment 2511_10 to ARCCAS Inv 165 Grounds maintenance services carried out during October (Steps) at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
– Payment 2512_1a to Slarcombe Inv520a Handrails for Jubilee Steps 27.1 metres and 15 upright supports. Design as to supplied schematic. Minus deposit. = £ 30 no VAT
– Payment 2512_1b to Slarcombe Inv521 Jubilee Steps Extra Labour = £111.7 no VAT
– Payment 2512_2 to CRadford November Clerk Salary = £986.79 no VAT
– Payment 2512_3 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £286.16 no VAT
– Payment 2512_4 Pension contributions on Clerk’s Nov Salary = £50.85 no VAT
– Payment 2512_5 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Oct) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2512_6 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Nov at 12EUR per month (£10.53).  Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Nov at £4.90 per month. Total 14.61 plus 82p VAT = £15.43
– Payment 2512_7 to South Hams District Council Invoice 22378713 for Cashless Processing fees for 1st July 2025 to 30th September 2025 for The Level and The Hams Cashless Income at £777.21 plus £155.44 VAT = £932.65
– Payment 2512_8 to ARCCAS Inv 190 Grounds maintenance services carried out during November (Steps) at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
– Payment 2512_9 to Cornworthy Village Hall Meeting room booking at £14 per hour plus 3 x £5 electricity cards (Estimate) = £39 ESTIMATE
– Payment 2512_10 Expected invoice from Teign Trees based accepted quotation RHS Boundary Hedge: Trim top and both sides hard back to previous pruning at £590 plus £118 VAT = £708 It was noted that it was incorrectly understood that the adjacent property owner had paid a portion of the costs of this work in the past, however the Parish Council should pay the full cost.   It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council would pay the full invoice.
– Payment 2512_11 to South Hams District Council Inv22380510 For emptying of 3 litter bins on the Ham once a week (17 collections) 09/07/25-29/10/25 at £255 plus £51VAT = £306
– Payment 2512_13 to Society of Local Council Clerks for 50% of Annual Membership Fee = £120
6.3 2025/26 Budget Forecast for councillors to receive 2025/26 budget forecast report and make any comment to the Finance Working Group ahead of their meeting to set a draft 2026/27 budget. Cllrs received a 2025/26 budget forecast report as prepared by the Clerk. It was noted that car park income was less than anticipated.  No further comments were raised.
6.4 Dittisham Sailing Club – Ham parking permits Confirmation of 2026/27 permit price It was RESOLVED to increase the cost of permits by the September Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of 3.8%. which would increase the cost of permits from £36.10 to £37.48. The Sailing Club has indicated that they will round this up to charge members £37.50.
7. Grant application from Dittisham Village Hall for consideration The application for a grant of £4000 in the 2026/27 financial year was discussed. It was RESOLVED that the Finance Working Group review the Parish Council’s finances, look closely at the application and make a recommendation to the Parish Council on making a grant offer, and on what conditions.
8. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions To note the following:
– 2791/25/HHO Riverside House Riverside Road Dittisham Householder application for extension & renovations APPROVE
9. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
9.1 3172/25/LBC Downton Barton Dittisham Listed building consent for repairs & alterations to include replacement of windows rooflights, re-rendering in lime, re-laying slate floors, re-building chimney, damp treatment, bathroom reconfiguration, roof & leadwork repairs It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
9.2 3366/25/TCA Dittisham T08: Ash – Reduce the tree to approx. 3 mtrs in height, retaining the trunk as a valuable deadwood habitat for invertebrates and other wildlife It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
9.3 3418/25/HHO Sunday School The Level Dittisham Rear extension to provide first floor shower room and WC. It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application
10. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
10.1 Health: Dartmouth Medical Practice Patient Participant Group To receive an update on the recent AGM. Cllrs J Green and Unitt were there. The presentation had been circulated to cllrs. It was commented that the appointments system now in place appears to be extremely efficient.
10.2 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps It was noted that the project is now complete.
10.3 Maintenance: Working Group To receive an update from the Maintenance Working Group Meeting held on 17/11/25 and consider any recommendations. It was noted that the following works had been undertaken:
– The Ham a) Damaged end of the gate at the top of Ham Lane cut; b) Dead trees in Ham carpark cut down – arisings used to bolster habitat pile at the back of the salt marsh and dead hedge in South tree line. c) Rimmed tree line adjacent to parking area on North side of Ham car park; d) Recurring problem of pot holes in carpark filled in; e) Pot hole on Ham Lane filled in with cold tarmac. f) Fallen tree in the boat park – cut up and added to habitat pile nearby.
– Old Chapel Burial Ground a) Vegetation from top layer of wall has been removed b) Memorial hand test completed
– Level Car Park Salt Bin has been re-sited.
– Manor St Triangle Dog poo bin in has been fixed to the wall.
– Capton Phone Box and noticed board have been cleaned.
It was noted that quotes are being obtained for maintenance work, and that the invitation to tender will go through the Clerk.
10.4 Neighbourhood Plan It was reported that the initial survey will be circulated just before Christmas, with a deadline at the end of January, following which a public meeting will be held. It was agreed to use the same distribution list as was used for circulation of the Emergency Plan letters. It was confirmed that a map of the Parish boundary had been sent to the Local Planning Authority to accompany the Parish Council’s Reg 5 application for designation of a neighbourhood area.
10.6 Dittisham Village Hall Notes from the AGM and committee meeting had been circulated and had been read.
10.7 Friends of the Dart To receive the Friends of the Dart September 2025 data review. Cllrs were encouraged to read the report. There was discussion on the permit system in place that allows the discharge of sewage overflow. Cllrs commented on the frequency of these occurrences during periods of rainfall, discharge locations and complaints from the public.  Cllr N.Green commented on discussions he has held with the Environment Agency and the local MP to change the system and prevent permitted discharge of sewage.  Cllrs agreed to collect photos and report discharge frequency in order to support this campaign.
10.8 Dart Harbour Communities Group To receive an update from the meeting of 06/11/25. Minutes from the meeting were circulated and noted.
10.9 West Dart Bus To receive an update on bus parking options Advice had been sought from the C.Cllr who commented that it is was considered unlikely that the HATOC committee would support provision of a designated space on the highway without community support.  It was RESOLVED to make an application to HATOC, which should include evidence of community support.  It was queried whether the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group would include a question about support for a bus parking space on the highway. There was a discussion about providing a space in one of the Parish Council car parks  in which it was noted that the Road Traffic Regulation Act does not permit a single letting for longer than 7 days.  Leasing a small area of the car park to the bus with an easement for access could offer a solution, but legal fees to establish this could be cost prohibitive.
11. Clerk’s Report Nothing to report.
12. Trees
12.1 Ham Tree Works To receive update on quote acceptance and date for works. It was confirmed that on receipt of a requote to provide a like-for-like comparison, Pittman Trees was contracted to undertake the works to pollard the ash tree #8 on The Ham, and wood chippings & cord-wood to be stacked neatly in the wildlife habitat area at the base of the tree, for a cost of £200 plus VAT.  Works would be scheduled once the outcome of the application for tree works in a conservation area is known.
12.2 Response to a member of the public’s concern about impact of failure of trees at the Level Car Park Cllrs had received papers prepared by the Clerk that compiled correspondence from the homeowner, the Parish Council’s insurer and arboriculturist. It was RESOLVED to respond to the landowner that the Parish Council is satisfied with insurance arrangements and inspection regime. Parish Council recognises your concern and seeking additional expert advice.   ACTION: The Clerk to write to South Hams District Council’s Tree Officer for comment.
13. Grounds Maintenance Contract Consider scope of contract for 2025 – 2028. It was RESOLVED to make no alterations to the scope of the contract and that ACTION: The Clerk should go ahead and seek to renew.
14. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use It was commented that the kiosk needs to be sealed and dried.  Most responses received to date were in support of a book exchange.
15. Red Lion Inn Cllrs received an update from the Clerk on arrangements for receipt of a peppercorn rent and having reviewed the insurance arrangements against the lease. It was RESOLVED to politely ask the Red Lion Inn a number of questions on behalf of the Parish Council.
16. Free Parish Boat Park Cllrs received an update from Cllr Unitt. It was RESOLVED that Cllr Unitt make further enquiries from adjacent landowners about their views on the land.
17. Potential new car park There was no further news on which to update the Council.
18. Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.
To note:
– Data Protection fee – direct debit due to be collected ICO:00012056244 Cllrs were informed that the fee of £52 minus £5 Direct Debit Discount will be collected on or before 13/12/2025.
– Dittisham Village Hall tariff rates Cllrs were informed that the Village Hall will be raising hire charges for the first time since before the pandemic to meet increased running costs. The Parish Council will continued to be charged the ‘affiliated club’ tariff, which will increase from £20 to £25 for a 4 hour session in the School Room.
– TTRO2566809 Temporary Traffic Notice Lee Lane to Capton Cross Cllrs were informed that the Temporary Traffic Order has been amended as the original notice was wrongly issued with a diversion route. The road into Capton is a cul de sac, there is no alternative access along Lee Lane, from either direction. Access will be maintained for residents.
– TTRO2565898 Temporary Traffic Notice – CAPTON BRIDGE CROSS TO HEMBOROUGH POST CROSS Cllrs were informed of a road closure in place from 15 – 17/12/25 affecting roads at Capton Bridge Cross to Hemborough Post Cross, Blackawton and from Lee Lane to The Sportsmans Arms. This is to enable Airband works.
– #51 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that the e-bulletin includes news of new ‘Being a Good Councillor’ training available from January onwards.
To consider
– Dittisham community store The Parish Council has been asked by a representative of the community store if it has up to date statistics on the number of households/properties in the Parish, the number of permanent residents and proportion of second homes. This data would help inform the store’s financial model and business plan.  The Clerk has forwarded the Parish Council’s policy on awarding grants in response to a query about available funding.  ACTION:  Cllr Unitt will send the Clerk a list of properties compiled without personal data, produced as part of the Emergency Planning process, from which the Clerk can extrapolate data about number of properties in the Parish.
19. Next Meeting: To confirm the next monthly meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday January 7 2026 at 7:00pm at Dittisham Village Hall.

Meeting was closed at 21:10

Minutes 2025 November 5

Nov 20, 2025 | Minutes

 APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 5 November 2025 at 7:00pm

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), J Green, Hawkes, Neale, Pope & Unitt were present, as was C.Cllr Rake for part of the meeting, C Radford (Clerk). 3 members of the public were present.
Apologies: Cllrs N Green, Golding.

Public Forum No matters were raised by members of the public.

1. Apologies Were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Bond on item 17.3 payment 2511_4. Cllr Neale on item 17.3 payment 2511_9.
3. Approval of Minutes:
It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the monthly meeting held on 1 October 2025 with minor amendments.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor (D.Cllr) The D.Cllr was not in attendance to provide an update.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor (C.Cllr) The following update was given.
– Devon County Council (DCC) is encouraging people to come forward as foster parents.
– The Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy has been published and open for consultation.
– The C.Cllr has visited Hope Wood in South Brent; a piece of land that SHDC acquired with financial support from DEFRA that provides an amenity space for the community. South Hams District Council (SHDC) will receive biodiversity net gain credits.  South Hams will gain money from biodiversity net gain credits, as part of the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest partnership.
– Devon County Highways (Highways) has now moved to their winter regime, where their priorities shift to snow, ice, leaves and water over the fixing of potholes.
– Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) proposals will be submitted to Whitehall shortly, following which there will be a period of respite whilst Government considers them. It was confirmed that several proposals are being put forward in Devon. This includes the ‘New Devon’ proposal put forward by Devon County Council, the 4-5-1 proposal which is the preferred option of the District and Borough councils. Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay propose that they each become Unitary Authorities.  Plymouth and Exeter propose extending their boundaries and that the remainder become a single unitary. The C.Cllr was asked his opinion on whether reducing barriers to house building in rural areas is a motivating factor for LGR.  The C.Cllr commented that there are a number of uncommenced permissions in the region due to conditions of building.  It was commented that the Devolution is the bigger strategic direction of travel – where there is the potential that a regional mayor could get money from Whitehall to support the costs of a new town, for example.
5. Councillor Vacancy Consider process of co-option having received three applications. It was agreed to hold a separate meeting with candidates ahead of the next meeting of the Parish Council.  It was agreed to hold less formal ‘co-option hustings’ that would be more conversational than a structured interview.  The Clerk will invite applicants a meeting on Monday November 17.
6. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions The following decisions were noted:
6.1 2507/25/LBC Limekiln Dittisham Listed Building Consent for sympathetic replacement of failed oak lintel & consolidation of loose stonework APPROVED
6.2 2643/25/TCA 2 Watermans Cottage, Manor Street Dittisham. T1: Elm – remove, Dutch Elm Disease. APPROVED
6.3 2618/25/LBC Bozomzeal Manor, Bozomzeal, Dittisham. Listed Building Consent for additional insulation/plasterboard over existing plasterboard ceiling finish. APPROVED
6.4 2821/25/TCA Dartway The Level Dittisham T1: Cherry – crown height reduction by up to 3.0m, lateral reduction around canopy by approximately 1–2m, to create a balanced and natural form. APPROVED
7. New Planning Applications the Parish Council considered the following applications:
7.1 2791/25/HHO Riverside House Riverside Road Dittisham Householder application for extension & renovations It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
7.2 2596/25/HHO Quicks Cottage Lower Street Dittisham Householder application for construction of timber summer house in garden It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
8. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
8.1 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps To receive an update on project progress, redesign and associated costs. It was reported that works are due to start this week. Following a site meeting with the contractor the position of the uprights have been marked out.  Alterations will cost an additional £200.  Members of the Working Group are aware that the steps can be slippery and are looking at how this can be resolved.
8.2 Maintenance: Manor Street Project To receive an update on arrangements for installation of the dog waste bin. It was reported that the maintenance working group will be fixing the new dog waste bin to replace the temporary bin.
8.3 Maintenance: Working Group
8.3.1 Update from the Maintenance Working Group Meeting held on 21/10/25 Minutes from the Maintenance Working Group had been circulated with meeting papers. Minutes showed that the Working Group had reviewed at the regular jobs list, noting where maintenance items have been completed, are ongoing or to be undertaken.
8.3.2 Maintenance Working Group recommendations Full council considered recommendations as follows:
– Arccas contract:  It was RESOLVED to follow the recommendation of the Working Group and extend the groundworks contract with ARCCAS for a further 2 years. It was RESOLVED to look at the contract and what is included at the next meeting.
– Ham Triangle/Riverside Road Boundary It was RESOLVED to follow the recommendation of the Working group and add lengths of silver birch trunks alongside the stones.
– Ham Lane/Riverside House Hedge Cutting: It was recommended that the Parish Council obtain quotes for the recommend that the Parish Council obtain quotes for the whole job, with the proposal that the Parish Council pay two-thirds of the cost, on the basis that in the past DPC has paid for the Ham Lane side and the top of the hedge to be cut. Three quotes had been obtained and presented to the Parish Council for consideration.  After discussion it was RESOLVED that the Parish Council’s support the quote from Teign Trees at a cost of £590 plus VAT to cut the hedge and to request that the contractor split the invoice.  It was delegated to Cllr Neale to relay this decision to the owner of Riverside House and the contractor.
8.4 Finance: Quarterly meeting
8.4.1 Update from the Quarter 2 meeting held on 28/10/25 Minutes of the meeting had been circulated with papers. It was noted that the car park income had now been received for Quarter 1 and Quarter 4.  The Working Group noted that actual car park income to date is not in line with predicted income.  This is not currently a concern but the working group is keeping a close eye on this.
8.4.2 Finance Working Group recommendations Full council considered recommendations:
– It was RESOLVED the Clerk paid an overtime of 9 hours overtime for quarter 2.
– It was RESOLVED the meeting costs incurred in hiring the Village Hall for meetings relating to the Neighbourhood Plan in the current financial year should be covered by the Parish Council’s budget.
8.5 Neighbourhood Plan To receive an update. Minutes of the last meeting had been circulated with papers. It was noted that the Steering Group is now up and running. First action is to survey all members of the Parish to ask people what they most valued about being in the Parish. This will be conducted over Christmas/January and the Steering Group will meet again in February to take this forward.  It was noted that the Parish Council’s submission of Designation of Plan Area could not be processed without inclusion of a map of the Parish boundary.  ACTION: Cllr Unitt and Bond to to support the production of a PDF map of the Parish Boundary through Parish Online.
8.6 West Dart Bus To receive an update and consider bus parking options. It was reported that the school bus contract is up and running.  A second bus may be purchased soon.  There was a discussion in which options for parking the second bus at a site in Dittisham were considered.  This would increase visibility of the West Dart Bus in Dittisham and opportunities might arise to take trips.  It was RESOLVED to support a parking space for the West Dart Bus in either the Level Car Park or on Riverside Road, and to delegate investigation of the two proposed options to Cllr Hawkes for him to make the necessary arrangements.
9. Clerk’s Report to receive an update from the Clerk on any matters arising within the month. It was reported that the Clerk has updated contact details with the Information Commissioner’s Office and providing her details as the Data Protection Officer.
10. Trees
10.1 Tree Survey Recommendation: Ham Tree Works Consider quotations received to appoint a contractor. Three quotations were sought to undertake works to reduce tree 8, an ash tree on the Ham to approximately 3 metres in height, retaining the trunk as a valuable deadwood habitat for invertebrates and other wildlife. Four quotes were obtained from ARB Approved Contractors.  Two quotes were preferred but there was variation between contractor A and C on treatment of arisings.  It was RESOLVED to request that contractor C requote to provide a like for like comparison.  It was delegated to the Clerk to accept the cheaper of the two quotes once the requote had been received.
10.2 Tree Survey Recommendation: Re-siting Grit Bin at the Level Car Park It was reported that Devon County Highways had been informed of tree survey recommendation to move the bin. Highways responded with no objections, commenting that the Parish Council would likely be able to progress the project more swiftly than Highways could deal with it. It was agreed that the Parish Council would move the grit bin.  ACTION: The Maintenance Working Group would discuss possible locations at their next meeting on November 17.
10.3 Response to a member of the public’s concern about impact of failure of trees at the Level Car Park The Clerk provided a verbal update to the Parish Council, following communication with the Parish Council’s insurer, with the arboriculturist that produced the annual tree survey, and further correspondence from the member of the public concerned about the trees at the Level. It was RESOLVED to defer the matter to the next meeting, to enable all Parish Councillors to review all the material to respond comprehensively.
11. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use. The suggestions considered to date had been circulated with papers.  It was agreed to leave notices on site to encourage further responses and to retain the item on the agenda as a rolling item.
12. Red Lion Inn
12.1 Insurance To receive submission of the Inn’s current insurance policy for the building, as per the terms of the lease. Consider confirming approval. Cllrs noted receipt with thanks.
12.2 Ground Rent To confirm receipt of peppercorn ground rent on 25/03/25 and confirm next due date as 25/03/26. ACTION: The Clerk to investigate and ask the previous Clerk if there is a formal record.
12.3 Planning for building works To receive information on the intention to submit an application for minor buildings works, ahead Parish Council, as landlord, receiving full plans. The Parish Council look forward to receiving the plans.
13. Free Parish Boat Park To consider potential options to improve management of the area at the end of Dittisham Sailing Club Boat Park. During discussion it was agreed that the ownership of the land would need to be established before progressing any project. It was RESOLVED that Cllr Unnit would undertake further investigation, consulting with interested parties on possible options. It was noted that on publication of the agenda the Clerk had received correspondence from two members of the public to comment on this item, which would be forwarded to Cllr Unnit.
14. Speeding cars in village Consider possibility of radar speed sign in response to road speeds down the hill and past the bus stop. After discussion of options it was RESOLVED to ask Highways to refresh the 20mph sign sited above the Village Hall . It was agreed to investigate 20’s Plenty signs and to consider budgeting for radar speed signs in the 2026/27 budget.
15. Potential new car park To receive an update on discussions between the landowner, the Village Hall and Parish Council. It was reported that a group of people interested in investigating options had met at which discussed on land ownership, feasibility, responsibility and risk had been discussed. It is expected a paper will be produced that will outline the various options discussed.  Conversations are ongoing.
16. Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.
To note:
– Temporary Traffic Order – Lee Lane to Capton Cross, Dittisham (TTRO2565893) Cllrs were informed of a road closure in place between 8am – 6pm 18^th – 23^rd December 2025 to enable Airband’s cabling, splicing and installation of new poles. Lee Lane To Capton Cross, Capton, carriageway & verge are affected. An alternative, signed route will be in place via Hemborough Post Cross.
– Save the date – Annual General Meeting Cllrs are informed of the invitation to join the Devon Communities Together AGM between 1-4pm on 26/05//25. The AGM is preceded with a Rural Transport Poverty expert panel and Q&A.
– Joint Local Plan – have you got land available? Cllrs were informed that the District Council is undertaking a call for sites as part of the preparation of a new South Hams and West Devon Joint Local Plan. The call is for sites suitable for future housing and/or economic development and Gypsy and Traveller sites. Sites must generally be at least 0.25 hectares or capable of supporting 5+ dwellings or 100+ sqm of employment floorspace.  The deadline for submissions is 05/12/25.
– Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service- Community Conversations event Cllrs were informed that the next Community Conversations event Our next Community Conversations event will be on 7 November 2025 at 12:00pm and the topic will be focused on winter safety.
– IMPORTANT: Scribe – Price Increase for Dittisham Parish Council Cllrs were informed that annual subscription costs will rise by £8.20 per month to £372. Scribe calculates costs charged to Parish Councils based on its precept demand.  Costs are adjusted according to a three-year review cycle. The change will apply from the next renewal after 1^st April 2026.  Councils are informed now to enable budget planning.
– Devon councils announce proposal for new local government structure for the county The Parish Council was informed by news release of the District Council’s proposal in response to Local Government Reorganisation. The release outlines the 4-5-1 model, that includes: A unitary authority for West Devon, Teignbridge, South Hams and Torbay; A unitary authority for North Devon, Torridge, Mid Devon, East Devon and Exeter; Plymouth remaining a standalone unitary authority.
– Remembrance Sunday service at St George’s Church Cllrs were informed that the service will take place at 10:55 on Sunday November 9. It has been confirmed that the Chairman of the Parish Council will be in attendance, as is customary.  A wreath has been purchased.
– #46 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that this ebulletin includes an invitation to one of DALC’s regular free ‘Connect’ events for DALC members. The next event on 5/11 on Zoom: ‘Connect Event: The Changing Roles of Town and Parish Councils Through LGR – Devolution and Partnership Working’. Slides and a recording of the session will also be available via DALC’s website after the event.
– Libraries Unlimited – Annual Report 2024-25 The Parish Council has received a link to Annual Report 2024-25 – Libraries Unlimited also providing a link to how the charity can be supported: Support Us – Libraries Unlimited.
– Invitation_ Devon Local Government Reorganisation – Stakeholder Briefing & Feedback Session Cllrs were invited to a dedicated session for town & parish councils as part of Devon’s Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) process. The session will provide information of the actions taken to date and present the preferred 4-5-1 model, offer a Q&A session and gather feedback on proposals. The session will take place at 6pm on 5/11
– Advance notice – South Hams Community Awards 2026 The Parish Council has been asked to consider potential nominations for the award. The Chairman of the District Council and a panel of judges are looking for nominations for people who make a difference in the community, in the following categories: Young Persons Award (for under 18s); Community Champion Award (for over 18s); Community Organisation Award; Climate and Biodiversity Champion Award (individual or group).  A  link to the online nomination form when nominations open and all nominations will need to be submitted by end of January 2026.
– #47 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs are informed that this ebulletin encourages responses to the draft Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) that sets out a shared vision for restoring Devon’s wildlife and natural habitats. The Strategy identifies where and how we can work together to protect and enhance nature, from river catchments and woodlands to coastlines and urban green spaces. Public consultation runs until 05/11/25. naturerecoverydevon.org.uk  The bulletin advertises the next Connect Event at 1pm on 11/11/25 called ‘All Things Traffic’ that provides an opportunity to understand the policy and processes which shape how we manage traffic on our highways and the associated infrastructure such as white lines and signs.
To consider
– Opps! Your profile on aDoddle.org is now Turquoise – Action Needed The Parish Council has received notification that the Dittisham Parish Habitat Plan has not been reviewed or updated for 6 months on the aDoddle website, and has therefore been colour coded as potentially out of date. ACTION: The Clerk to update the password and forward to Cllr Neale.
– Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Precept Survey Local residents and businesses are asked to respond to a five-minute form asks how people feel about the service they receive, and will influence the amount the Service receives from council tax in 2026/27. The Parish Council is asked to help by sharing this information with communities through a poster provided, sharing @dsfireupdates social media posts and completing the survey  before 3 December.  Correspondence was noted.
– Skip on the Ham Car Park The Parish Council was asked to consider a request to put a skip in a space on The Ham car park for one day only to facilitate moving building waste from Binham Cottage. This is in response to the understanding that vehicular access across the Ham is generally not possible.  Use of the car parking space by the skip will be paid for on receipt of an invoice. The Member of Public applying carries out joinery and building work in Dittisham and has Public Liability Insurance in place. It was RESOLVED that siting the skip would be permitted.  It was agreed that the applicant be charged prorata for the number of days that the skip is on site and invoiced accordingly.
17. Financial Matters
17.1 2026/27 Budget for councillors to discuss projects that would require additional/increase in funding within the next financial year. Cllrs agreed to investigate costs for the purchase of a radar speed sign, expecting this to cost approximately £6000, to consider allocation of £3500 towards the cost of producing a Neighbourhood Plan and consider creation of a budget line in preparation of any costs associated to the impact of Local Government Reorganisation. It was proposed that the Parish Council establish an earmarked reserve of approximately £5000 to cover any legal costs.  It was noted that the Parish Council may wish to increase amount of general reserves in preparation. .
17.2 Receipts and Payments between meetings The following receipts and payments were noted:
– Income from South Hams District Council Invoices 18 and 21 Mobile app car park income 2024/25 Quarter 4 and 2025/26 Quarter 1 at £15745.43 plus £3149.07 VAT = £18,894.50
– Payment 2510_15 to Lloyds bank for banking fees = £4.75 no VAT
– Payment 2510_14 to SLarcombe Inv 518 for Site visit on 6/10/25. Marking out posts and looking at modifications at the top of the steps to the handrail. (Jubilee Steps) = £70 no VAT
17.3 November Payments It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:
– Payment 2511_1 to Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee Inv 25/31 Room hire in 2025/26 Q1 and Q2 at £240 plus £48 VAT = £288
– Payment 2511_2 to Starboard Systems Limited INV-13146 Scribe Accounts renewal (2026) at £6 plus £54.72 VAT = £328.32
– Payment 2511_3 to CRadford October Clerk Salary = £877.41 no VAT
– Payment 2511_4 Level Car Park Loan Repayment = £5000 no VAT
– Payment 2511_5 to RBond for reimbursement: Rememberence Wreath (Amazon) at £16.66 plus £3.33 VAT = £19.99
– Payment 2511_6 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £286.16 no VAT
– Payment 2511_7 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Sept) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2511_8 Pension contributions on Clerk’s Oct Salary = £39.61 no VAT
– Payment 2511_9 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Oct at 12EUR per month (£10.49). Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Oct at £4.90 per month at £14.57 plus £0.82 VAT = £15.39
– Payment 2511_11 to ARCCAS for expected invoice for grounds maintenance services carried out during October as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600
– It was agreed to query invoice Inv 165 for grounds maintenance services carried out during October (Steps) before payment. It was commented that works to clear the steps seemed to appear in the main contract from October – December and to therefore contact the contractor for clarification of the arrangement.
18. Next Meeting: It was confirmed the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday December 3 2025 at 7:00 pm. It was noted that the Dittisham Village Hall would not be available and therefore to make enquiries to book the Cornworthy Village Hall.

Download a PDF of the November 2025 monthly meeting minutes here (PDF)

Approved Minutes 2025 October 1

Oct 13, 2025 | Minutes

APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 1st October 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), Golding, J Green, Hawkes, Neale, Pope & Unitt were present, as were D.Cllr McKay, C.Cllr Rake for part of the meeting, C Radford (Clerk). No members of the public were present.
Apologies: None
Absent: Cllr N Green

Public Forum No members of the public were present

1 Apologies As above.

2 Declaration of Interests Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Neale in item 6.4 payment 2510_8.  Cllr Hawkes in item 8.1.  Cllr Golding in item 8.2.  Cllrs Hawkes and Golding left the room whilst those items were considered.

3 Approval of Minutes:
It was RESOLVED to approve of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on 3 September 2025 as an accurate record.

4 Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor (D.Cllr)

• Local Government Reorganisation It was reported that South Hams District Council (SHDC) and the other District and Borough Councils in Devon are employing consultants to put together the 4-5-1 proposal for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) which sees the establishment of three unitary authorities in the County, despite Devon County Council (DCC) coming to the conclusion that this proposal is not viable. DCC is being asked to share its findings.  Comments were made about the time and money being spent on LGR by all other officers.  It was noted that SHDC is already losing officers seeking work elsewhere. Recruitment to vacating roles is unlikely and workload of officers leaving post will being shared amongst other officers, who already have a full caseload.
• Community Transport It was reported that a round table meeting had been held with community transport operators at Follaton House. A Community Transport report has recently been published.
• Sustainable South Hams Energy Assembly The D.Cllr encouraged cllrs to attend and to spread the word. It was reported that the Government have announced its ambitions but has not yet changed legislation around community energy.
• UK Shared Prosperity Fund for Rural Areas SHDC has now distributed approximately £250,000 of funding in grants of up to £10,000 to support a wide range of projects. The funding is now fully allocated.
• Street Cleaning The D.Cllr will follow up on his action to facilitate a meeting between the officer responsible for street cleaning and the Parish Council.

4.2 Devon County Council Councillor (C.Cllr) Arrived at 20:17.

• New Strategic Plan The Plan, which puts a big emphasis on Children’s Services, is now in place and now published on the DCC website. It is noted that the County’s Children’s Services have been rated as inadequate for several years.  Some improvement is in process.
• Pothole Trial A trial is being conducted in two areas, where teams will repair potholes within 500 meters even if they don’t meet the threshold for them being considered a defect or not.
• Care Quality Commission (CQC) Review A baseline assessment of Adult Care Services is taking place countywide. Officers are confident that the outcome will be inline with the national average.
• Local Government Reorganisation DCC has gone public with news it will be submitting a ‘One Devon’ proposal. The C.Cllr will be looking at the proposal with interest.  The main risks lie in the splitting up of the two big core areas: Children Services and Adult Social Care. DCC has also come to the view that the 4-5-1 proposal more popular with the District/Borough Councils would lead to a funding imbalance, leaving the group of 4 councils better off than the group of 5 councils, who would be worse off.  DCC continues to meet with District/Borough and continuing to flesh out the 4-5-1 proposal so both proposals can be submitted to government by the deadline of end of November.

5 Councillor Vacancy It was reported that a notice calling for applications has been circulated and it is likely that there will be more applications than vacancies. It was AGREED that the next monthly meeting be convened early to enable interviews to take place.

6. Financial Matters
6.1 Receipts and Payments between meetings the following transactions were noted for information.

• Income from Glanville Cleansing Invoice 20 Car Park hire for creation of storage and welfare enclosure from 2nd – 17th July 2025 at £350 plus £70 VAT = £420
• Income from South Hams District Council, second Precept payment = £9778 no VAT
• Payment 2509_17 and 2509_18 to Nest Pensions for July and August pension contributions = £74.44
• Payment 2509_19 to Lloyds bank for banking fees = £4.75 no VAT
• Payment 2509_20 to Lloyds bank for banking fees = £4.75 no VAT
• It was reported that the car park income from SHDC for 2024/5 Q1 and 2025/6 Q2 has not yet been received. The Clerk is chasing this.

6.2 October Payments for authorisation It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:

• Payment 2509_11 to SLarcombe as 30% of value of Jubilee Steps quotation = £1580.70 no VAT
• Payment 2510_1 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Sept) = £150 no VAT
• Payment 2510_2 Back pay to previous Clerk value detailed in payslip.
• Payment 2510_3 to CRadford September Clerk Salary = £887.63 no VAT
• Payment 2510_4 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £356.90 no VAT
• Payment 2510_5 to Nest Pensions for pension contributions on Clerk’s Sept Salary = £45.01 no VAT
• Payment 2510_6 Nest Pensions for pension contributions on previous employee’s back pay value detailed on payslip
• Payment 2510_7 to CRadford for clerk expenses: Purchase of dog waste bin from Kingfisher at £150.60 and renewal of dittishamparishc.co.uk and dittishamparish.com for one year at £157.48 plus £31.50 VAT = £188.98
• Payment 2510_8 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services monthly renewal September at 12EUR per month (£10.51).  Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal September at £1 per month = £11.51 no VAT
• Payment 2510_9 To AThom for reimbursement of HP instant ink subscription June and July at £10.82 plus £2.16 VAT = £12.98
• Payment 2510_10 to Source for Business (SWW) for services at standpipe, the quay, Dittisham June – September 2025 = £51.83 no VAT
• Payment 2510_11 to Dart Forest Trees invoice C886 to undertake annual tree inspection, assess the risks of tree defects identified and provide a written report at £485 plus £97 VAT = £582.
• Payment 2510_12 to ARCCAS invoice 135 for grounds maintenance services carried out during September, as per ongoing contract agreement at £30 plus £6 VAT = £600
• Payment 2510_13 to ARCCAS invoice 136 for grounds maintenance services carried out during the month preceding the invoice date 01/08/25, as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600

7 South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions To note the following:
7.1 1915/25/HHO Twenty Fathoms, Higher Street, Dittisham. Householder application for a rear two storey extension, front porch, internal modifications & landscaping APPROVED The Officer’s report had noted the Parish Council’s comments commenting that the soakaway has been designed and sited in a manner which accords with the recommendations from the surface water drainage assessment and as such is considered to accord with policies in the Local Plan.

8 New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
8.1 2643/25/TCA 2 Watermans Cottage, Manor Street Dittisham. T1: Elm – remove, Dutch Elm Disease. Cllr Hawkes left the meeting. It was RESOLVED to MAKE NO COMMENT.  Cllr Hawkes returned to the meeting.
8.2 2618/25/LBC Bozomzeal Manor, Bozomzeal, Dittisham. Listed Building Consent for additional insulation/plasterboard over existing plasterboard ceiling finish. Cllr Golding left the meeting. It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application. Cllr Golding returned to the meeting.
8.3 2651/25/LBC Meadow View, The Level, Dittisham. Listed Building Consent for installation of conservation rooflights, replacement front door & porch window & refurbishment of external store. It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
8.4 2659/25/HHO Meadow View, The Level, Dittisham. Householder application for replacement garden summer house & supporting decking alongside replacement of secondary decking area (part retrospective) It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT with the following comment: Access concerns for the contractors doing the works.
8.5 2821/25/TCA Dartway The Level Dittisham T1: Cherry – crown height reduction by up to 3.0m, lateral reduction around canopy by approximately 1–2m, to create a balanced and natural form. It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.

9 Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
9.1 Emergency Plan It was reported that 11 members of the public and 1 councillor attended the course. Feedback has been positive; that the trainers delivering the course were good, that those who attended had a much better understanding of how to use defibrillators.  It was suggested to budget for more first aid courses to be held in the upcoming year.  It was noted that the Council had learned about the lead in time for management of bookings to improve systems in future.
9.2 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps It was reported that South West Water (SWW) has given approval to proceed at no extra cost, with the caveat that the Parish Council should take care around the sewer. Following an onsite meeting of the working group it is recommended to alter the design of the handrail to curve around the pillar at the top of the steps, rather than drill into it, and to consider modifications to avoid the risk of damage to the sewer. It was RESOLVED to sign the contract with the contractor. It was RESOLVED to pay the contractor 30% of the value of the quotation on signing the contract. It was RESOLVED to delegate the negotiation of additional cost for a site meeting and modifications to the design to the maintenance working group.
9.3 Maintenance: Manor Street Project It was reported that the dog waste bin has been ordered but has not arrived. ACTION: the Clerk to chase this.

10 Clerk’s Report to receive an update from the Clerk on any matters arising within the month

• Pensions It was reported that action was required to make pension contributions for August and September as these were considered overdue. The Clerk has submitted this and is in liaison with Nest Pensions to comply with requirements.
• Address update The address for the Parish Council has been update on all bank accounts, and updates made with suppliers as bills come in.
• Shower at the Ham A reply has been received from SHDC confirming that the shower at the Ham was removed as part of the public toilet review in 2018 at which the Council was responding to significant budget challenges and reducing services that it did not have a duty to provide. Shower facilities provide an additional cost in terms of water use, cleaning, repairs and maintenance and the required legionella testing.  Following the decision to no longer provide a shower, it was subsequently removed to remove any risk of legionella. The budget position at SHDC remains unchanged and the District Council would not be able to financially support the reinstatement of the shower facility.  ACTION: The Clerk will relay this information to the member of the public who initially raised the query with the Parish Council.

11 Neighbourhood Plan
It was reported that three meetings have now taken place.  The decision made at that the most recent meeting was that the those in attendance would like to go ahead and draft a Neighbourhood Plan. The grants that were recently available for Neighbourhood Planning have now gone.  It has been proposed to scope the scale of the plan, and consider the resources available in the community to support the process, and consider potential source of funds.  In order to move the process forwards, an application for a designated area needs to be submitted along with a terms of reference for a steering group.  Questions were asked about timeline and deadline.
11.1 Submission of an application for a designated area It was RESOLVED to submit an application, with the following amendments to the form:

• Use ‘Dittisham Parish Council incorporating the hamlet of Capton and the manors of Bozomzeal and Coombe’
• Use a Dittisham Parish Council email address as the contact address.

11.2 Terms of Reference for a Neighbourhood Planning Steering Group It was RESOLVED to approve the Terms of Reference with the amendment to use: ‘Dittisham Parish Council incorporating the hamlet of Capton and the manors of Bozomzeal and Coombe’
ACTION: The Clerk to make the amendments and submit the papers to SHDC Neighbourhood Planning team.

12 Tree Condition Report Cllrs had received the full tree condition report ahead of the meeting, following the site inspection of trees at the Ham, The Level car park and Capton Triangle by the qualified arborculturalist on September 8 2025. The report recommends the following works:

• The Ham: Tree #8 Ash – Fraxinus excelsior Observations: Significant ADB in crown and tree is now dead. Recommendation: Reduce to deadwood monolith at approx. 3 m. Work priority: Medium – Works recommended within 6 months
• The Ham: Tree #19 White Willow – Salix alba Observations: Recently pollarded at approx. 4 metres due to decayed main trunk and internal hollowing most likely caused from Phellinus spp. Decay fungi.  Excellent re-growth. Recommendation: Re-pollard cutting back to previous growth points in winter 2027. Work priority: Low – Works recommended to be carried out winter 2027
• The Level Car Park: Tree #0025 Rauli – Nothofagus procera Observations: Growing at entrance on southern side of car park. Crown has been reduced 2022. Large limb removal/ failure on western side of crown at approximately 12 metres. Crown has responded to recent pruning and is re-burgeoning. Recommendation: Try to relocate salt bin. Work priority: Low – Works recommended to be carried out whenever budgets allow.

It was RESOLVED to remove the salt bin, delegating the arrangement of this to the Maintenance Working Group.
It was RESOLVED to obtain quotes to undertake the recommended works to the ash tree #8 and bring those quotes to the next meeting.
It was noted that a Member of the Public (MoP) had written to the Parish Council to highlight concerns regarding the impact of any failure of the two larger trees in the Level Car Park, particularly in relation to their property and risk of personal injury.  The MoP requests that significant height and weight is removed from the tree, such that these risks are removed.  The Parish Council is asked to confirm insurance arrangements. It was noted that the recent tree survey had not identified any risks of failure or recommend any works are required.
It was RESOLVED to make enquiries with the Parish Council’s insurer.
It was RESOLVED to respond to the correspondent to comment that the Parish Council is investigating questions asked about insurance and will reply in due course.  A link to the minutes will be provided, showing the outcome of the tree inspection and the extent of the works recommended.

13 The Level Phone Box Update on ideas for ongoing use. ACTION: Cllr Bond will make consultation posters and circulate.

14 Potential new car park To receive an update on discussions between the landowner, the Village Hall and Parish Council. Representatives of the Parish Council and of the Village Hall Committee have had informal conversations and discussions are ongoing.

15 Clerk’s Employment Cllrs had received minutes from the meeting held between the Clerk, the Chair of the Personnel Committee and the Chair of the Parish Council. It was RESOLVED that the Clerk’s probation period come to a close.  A letter will be sent to the Clerk to formally acknowledge this.

16 IT policy Cllrs considered the draft IT policy as prepared by the Clerk. Some minor amendments were made, following which it was RESOLVED to adopt the policy.

17 Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider.

• 09/09/25 Training and upskilling opportunities Cllrs were informed this news bulletin highlighted training available through Devon Community Learning. Courses include:  An introduction to Neighbourhood Development Plans; Asset-Based Community Development; Introduction to Rural Housing; Writing Effective Funding Applications; Theory of Change & Measuring Tools; and, Social Enterprises.
• 09/09/25 Take action for your community this autumn! Cllrs were reminded of the South Hams Energy Assembly taking place 9:30 – 15:30 on Saturday October 18 at Kingsbridge Community College The term ‘Energy’ refers to renewable electricity and renewable heat, plus insulation and other methods to reduce waste. The event is intended to equip and empower local networkers and stakeholders so that they in turn can pass on information, solution, signpost, have answers to common myths and misconceptions. It covers domestic, business/commercial, farming, and community energy topics booking here. How to set up a Food Compost Creation Station is available 10:00 – 13:00  Saturday November 15 at Old School Farm, Dartington Estate, booking here.
• 09/09/25 Book your FREE place at our Autumn Forum Cllrs were informed of the autumn meeting of Devon Communities Resilience Forum taking place October 8 at the Beehive Centre, Honiton. Representatives from the National Grid, Digital Voice, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue, Devon Emergency Planning Partnership, East Devon District Council and the Environment Agency will be on hand to guide and advise delegates.
• 10/09/25 #39 2025 DALC E-bulletin This bulletin encourages all cllrs of both large and smaller councils to watch a recording and review slides from the recent ‘Connect’ event focusing on Local Government Reorganisation. Log in credentials to access the DALC website are required, but can be arranged, contact the Clerk for information.
• 15/09/25 OPCC’s CCTV funding scheme 2025 Cllrs were informed that The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner is seeking Expressions of Interest from local parish town councils and voluntary sector organisations across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly who are seeking financial support to install or upgrade CCTV systems. Total funding available is £125,000, a maximum amount of £10,000 can be requested per town or parish council, to pay for CCTV equipment and infrastructure only (not staff or buildings).  Applications close October 24.
• 22/09/25 3rd Dittisham Music Festival 2025 Cllrs were informed that the 3^rd Dittisham Music Festival raised over £7500, which has been distributed as follows: £696 to Dittisham Village Hall, £936 to St. George’s Church, £936 to Lyric Chamber Ensemble, £1707 to Rowcroft Hospice and £3438 to Landworks. Festival helpers have been thanked for their valuable contributions to organising, participation and help at the festival.

To consider

• 15/09/25 Emergency Plan Cllrs were informed that a project manager at Devon Communities Together has written to ask about progress in relation to the Dittisham Emergency Plan, asking if DCT can do anything to support progress and to encourage a representative of the Parish Council to join the Devon Communities Resilience Forum on Thursday October 8 (above). ACTION: Cllr Unitt will continue corresponding with the project manager.
• 10/09/25 DAA Dittisham CLS – annual re survey – Thursday 18th September 2025 Cllrs were informed that Devon Air Ambulance Trust were due to visit the community landing site in Dittisham at 10am on September 18. The re-survey is undertaken each year to ensure the continuing safety of DAAT helicopters, crew and patients and that nothing has substantially changed as far as any potential obstacles or height of trees, access etc. A follow up email was received informing the council that a different brand of lighting units have been installed on other Landing Sites at a considerably cheaper cost of £82.50 + VAT with a 5 year guarantee, and to get in touch with DAAT this is of interest to the Parish Council. It was RESOLVED to progress this.  Authorisation was given to purchase lighting.
• 18/09/25 Defibrillator Status Update Cllrs were informed of notice from WebNos that the defibrillators at both the Red Lion Inn and the Dittisham Toilet Block on The Ham require a site check, as neither were checked during August. ACTION: Cllr Bond to update the website.
• 22/09/2025 We help families in fuel poverty The Parish Council has received information from Better Housing Better Health (BHBH), a not-for-profit service run by the National Energy Foundation, working to help residents living in or at risk of living in fuel poverty to access advice and support. Some additional support can be made to residents via a third party organisation, like the Parish Council. A meeting is offered with a partnership manager if this is something the Parish Council is interested in supporting.

18 Next Meeting: The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday November 5 2025 at 7:00 pm. Interviews to fill the vacancy on the parish council will take place immediately before the monthly meeting.

Meeting closed.

APPROVED minutes in PDF format can be downloaded here (PDF) Opens in new tab.

APPROVED Minutes 2025 September 03

Sep 17, 2025 | Minutes

Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 3 September 2025 at 7:00p.m.

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), N Green (Vice-Chair), Hawkes, Neale & Unitt were present, as were D.Cllr McKay, C Radford (Clerk). One member of the Public, the Parish Lengthsman, was in attendance.
Apologies: Cllrs Golding, J Green, & Pope

Public Forum
The Parish Lengthsman gave a short verbal update to comment that he has been frugal with hours for the 2025/26 year to date He has undertaken works at the bottom of Church Steps and intends to visit Capton Ditch, lower Capton and Bozomzeal Lane soon. Bramble Tour corner is draining slowly. Manor Street appears clear currently. What with early leaf fall and entering the hedge trimming season, ditches and buddle holes will soon fill everything up, so need to be kept in check.  The Lengthsman commented that he would like to visit the Parish more frequently than he has over the past few months. He will provide a written report to the Clerk to account for the hours he has spent to date. Cllrs commented that they are satisfied with the work and happy for the Lengthsman to continue.

1 Apologies were received as above.

2 Declaration of Interests Cllr Neale declared an interest in item 6.4 payment 2509_10.

3 Approval of Minutes:
3.1 To consider approval of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on 2 July 2025
3.2 To note the minutes of the Finance Working Group meeting held on 20 August 2025 (see item 5).
It was RESOLVED to sign minutes at 3.1 as an accurate record and to note the minutes at 3.2.

4 Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council (SHDC) Councillor (D.Cllr) The following update was given:

• There continues to be discussion on the preferred plans for Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), and whether South Hams, Teignbridge, West Devon and Torbay combine, East, Mid, North Devon, Torridge and Exeter combine and Plymouth is retained as a Unitary Authority (known as the 4-5-1 plan), or if all of the eight District Councils combine into one larger Unitary Authority, retaining Plymouth and Torbay as separate Unitaries. The argument for the latter ‘8-1-1’ plan is that Children’s Services and Adult Social Care could be better served across a larger combined Unitary Authority area.  Proposals will be put forward to the Secretary of State in November.
• To support decarbonisation, South Hams District Council (SHDC) has used funding from Central Government to install PV panels on the roof at Follaton House.
• Within the context of LGR, the Council is undertaking a review of projects and how they are financed with a view to spending available funds before district councils are dissolved.
• The water quality monitoring project is progressing, and data being generated by this and other projects will potentially contribute to research on the benefits of regenerative farming.
• A Community Transport meeting was productive, attended by the local MP who will follow up by attending further meetings to identify how she can best support projects.
• Sustainable South Hams and others are coming together to identify a coherent resilience plan that can continue beyond the life of the District Council.
• The D.Cllr stressed the importance of the Sustainable South Hams energy event taking place on 18 October.
• The D.Cllr has met with the land agent regarding proposed graveyard challenges. There are lots of planning issues.
• SHDC’s new lead on waste management has supported a renewed focus on street cleaning, seeking to improve how street cleaning is scheduled and communicated so that Parish Councils know when a street cleaner is expected and that the service becomes more reliable. Cllrs commented on the importance of an officer visiting the Parish rather than purely undertaking a desk exercise and requested that a meeting was arranged between Officers and cllrs to give the Parish Council input on what will or can be done.  It was commented that the cleaning machines aren’t often effective in Dittisham as they can’t get close enough to the walls. The D.Cllr commented that SHDC does not have resources to do the work manually, and looking for a community solution could be a good approach.  ACTION: The D.Cllr to request a meeting with officers, making contact through the Clerk.

4.2  Devon County Council (DCC) Councillor (C.Cllr) Not in attendance.

5 Councillor Vacancy It was noted that the Parish Council has had a vacancy for several months. As soon as confirmation has been given by SHDC that the Parish Council is able to co-opt, posters will be put up to encourage nominations.  There has already been some interest.

6 Financial Matters
6.1 Finance Working Group Report Members have all received the minutes from the meeting of the Finance Working Group on 20 August 2025. The main issue has been in receiving the income from the car parks from SHDC, which if it continues will cause cash flow issues for the Council. Following meetings with SHDC, invoices have now been raised for the value of £2813.30 for 2024/5 Quarter 4 and £16081.20 for 2025/6 Quarter 1. The Parish Council is also bearing the cost of grounds maintenance for 2024/5 and 2025/6 grounds maintenance and this year’s budget, as the previous contractor invoiced in arrears and the new contractor invoices monthly.  There will therefore be a draw of approximately £3500 on reserves.  The Working Group has agreed to review the earmarked reserves budget lines and tidy them up.
6.2 Record of past receipts and payments not yet noted in minutes Following the Clerk’s review of the 2025/26 financial records cross referencing with minutes, the following payments have not yet been noted on the public record:
Payments:

• To Nest for the Clerk’s February, March and April pension made across three payments in April and the May/June pension paid in June
• To the Clerk in respect of the monthly salary and working at home allowance made in April and May
• To HMRC for Tax and NI in connection to the Clerk’s monthly salary made in April, May and June
• To Lloyds bank for services fees paid in April, May and June at £4.75 each = £14.25
• To Metric for roll of non-adhesive parking tickets at £98.75 plus 19.74 VAT = £118.49
• To ARCCAS for Ground Maintenance Contract May at £500 plus £100 = £600
• To ARCCAS for Ground Maintenance Contract Steps May at £30 plus £6.00 = £36.00

Receipts:

• Car park income across 8 deposits collected and banked in April 2025 at £686.46 plus £137.29 VAT = £823.75
• Car park income across 6 deposits collected and banked in May 2025 at £855.46. plus £171.09 VAT = £1026.55
• Car park income across 7 deposits collected and banked in June 2025 at £1075.28 plus £215.07 = £12903.5
• Income Invoice 19 from Dart Harbour, 50% of fixed charge for pontoon tap = £175.23 no VAT

Payments made between meetings The following payments were noted:

• Payment 2507_8 to SLarcombe for date change fee S171 Licence Application for work on Jubilee step = £54 no VAT
• Payment 2507_9 to The Community Heartbeat Trust for Village Emergency Telephone System Year 2 at £100 plus 20 VAT = £120
• Payment 2507_10 to Geoxphere Ltd for Parish Online Mapping Software at £40 plus £8 VAT = £48
• Payment 2507_11 CRadford Clerk Salary July = £1043.15 no VAT
• Payment 2507_12 HMRC PAYE = £426.43 no VAT
• Payment 2507_13 MHurrell Car Park Attendant July = £150 no VAT
• Payment 2507_14 RBond Reimbursement for HP Printers via Amazon at £32.50 plus £6.50 VAT = £39
• Payment 2507_15 BT Payphones Telephone Kiosk Adoption at £0.83 plus £0.17 VAT = £1
• Payment 2507_16 HMRC Quarter 1 VAT return = £146.89
• Payment 2507_17 Lloyds Bank Fee = £4.75

6.3 September Payments for authorisation It was RESOLVED to make the following payments:

• Payment 2509_1 to Devon Association of Local Councils inv 6799 Attendance of Dave Hawkes at the Being a Good Councillor 4 webinar at £15 plus £3 VAT = £18
• Payment 2509_2 to ARCCAS invoice 72 for grounds maintenance services carried out during the month preceding the invoice date 01/08/25, as per ongoing contract agreement at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
• Payment 2509_3 to ARCCAS invoice 73 for grounds maintenance services carried out during the month preceding the invoice date 01/08/25, as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600
• Payment 2509_4 to MHurrell monthly car park checks and banking takings (August) = £150 no VAT
• Payment 2509_5 to South Hams District Council invoice 22366564 Cashless Processing fees for 1st January 2025 to 31st March for The Level and The Hams Cashless Income at £120.13 plus £24.03 VAT = £144.16
• Payment 2509_6 to South Hams District Council invoice 22366635 Cashless Processing fees for 1st April 2025 to 30^th June for The Level and The Hams Cashless Income at £587.58 plus £117.52 VAT = £705.10
• Payment 2509_7 to CRadford August Clerk Salary = £1013.51 no VAT
• Payment 2509_8 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £133.22
• Payment 2509_9 to CRadford Clerk Reimbursements: Renewal of ESET home security for 1 year at £35.99, Printed.com for 500 x Emergency Plan Business Cards at £34.73 and Printed.Com 340 x leaflets at £95.85 = 164.57 no VAT
• Payment 2509_10 Reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal June, July, August at 12EUR per month.  Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal June, July, Augst at £1 per month
• Payment 2509_12 Openreach One off map request = £63.50
• Payment 2509_13 ARCCAS Invoice 108 for grounds maintenance contract carried out during the month preceding the invoice date 01/09/25, as per ongoing contract agreement at £30 plus £6 = £36
• Payment 2509_14 ARCCAS Invoice 109 for August grounds maintenance contract carried out during the month preceding the invoice date 01/09/25, as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600
• Payment 2509_15 PKF Littlejohn LLP inv SB20250737Limited assurance review of Annual Governance & Accountability Return for year ended 31 March 2025 at £315 plus £63 VAT = £378
• Payment 2509_11 to SLarcombe as 30% of value of Jubilee Steps quotation was deferred until it would be possible to sign the contract.

6.4 Notification of Conclusion of 2024/25 Annual Audit It was reported that the External Auditor has completed the review of the Parish Council’s Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) and has raised no matters of concern. The External Auditor’s Report and Certificate and a Notice of Conclusion of Audit has been posted on the notice board and on the Parish Council website.

7 South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions Cllrs were informed of the following decisions:
7.1 0320/25/TPO Rose Orchard Lower Street Dittisham. G2: Holm Oak – Full crown reduction of up to 1.5m to manage canopy growth. (Pre pruning dimensions: H. 14m W.12m. Post pruning dimensions: H. 12.5m W. 10.5m) APPROVED
7.2 1718/25/HHO & 1719/25/LBC The Old Bakehouse, Manor Street, Dittisham. Householder application to renovate dwelling, including alterations & extensions to rear hall & loft area to create new bedroom suite. REFUSED.
7.3 2073/25/ARC Fairholme, Riverside Road, Dittisham. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 7 (Hard & Soft Landscape) of planning consent 1476/24/FUL. REFUSED.
7.4 2068/25/ARC Bay Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 9 (CMP) of planning consent 2890/24/HHO. APPROVED
7.5 2242/25/ARC Yew Tree Cottage, Manor Street, Dittisham. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 7 (External Lighting) of planning consent 3296/22/HHO REFUSED
7.6 0330/25/FUL The Old Rectory Rectory Lane Dittisham. Change of use of property from dwelling (C3) to mixed use, including dwelling, training/learning centre & work retreat (sui generis) REFUSED The Parish Council had recommended that if the approval was granted, it should be a personal permission. The Officer’s report commented that the application did not demonstrate any exceptional circumstances for which a personal permission would be appropriate.

8 New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
8.1 1915/25/HHO Twenty Fathoms, Higher Street, Dittisham. Householder application for a rear two storey extension, front porch, internal modifications & landscaping.  It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application with comments that the Parish Council is concerned about potential increases to light pollution from either inside the property (through glazing) or outside the property (through external lighting); and that the soak away is sufficient.

9 Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
9.1 West Dart Bus Cllrs received a short report that included an update on the community transport meeting, the successful school bus tender and on urgent fundraising, for which local offers of assistance have been given.  It was reported that it is likely that a second-hand bus will be bought to tide West Dart Bus over until the new bus is delivered.  Uses for the community bus are being sought, such as special events, trips and private hire.
9.2 Emergency Plan It was noted that 12 people have expressed an interest in joining the First Aid Course. An enquiry has been made to the trainers as to whether it is possible to increase numbers. Cllrs were informed that the Emergency Plan has been published on the Parish Council website and letters and a business card with easy to access information has been circulated to all residents.  An application made to the Devon Emergency Fund to cover the cost of printing the letters and business cards was successful.
9.3 Maintenance: Jubilee Steps. It was reported that the risk assessment process has revealed that the combined sewer doesn’t run where it appears on South West Water (SWW) maps. To be assured that the risks to damage have been resolved, an application to SWW water needs to be made, and will likely require CCTV examination to establish the location and condition of the pipes.  Depending on the outcome, the handrail may need to be moved from the centre of the steps to the side. This will lead to an overspend of approximately £1000 on the project.  It was RESOLVED to proceed with the project despite the additional costs that will be incurred.  It was noted that until the outcome is known, the Parish Council cannot enter into a contract with the supplier to fabricate and fit the railing. ACTION: Cllr Unitt will inform the contractor and ask what the minimum lead time is to purchase the materials ahead of fabrication.
9.4 Maintenance: Manor Street Project Cllrs received a report on the trial of the dog waste bin noting that the use of the bin was respected and very little general waste was put in it. A photo was taken each time it needed to be emptied. It proved to be well used and immediate residents have given positive feedback. It was RESOLVED:

• to replace the temporary bin with an official small dog waste bin. ACTION: Cllr Neale to provide the Clerk with details for purchase.
• to ask SHDC if this bin could be included in the regular round of bin collections in Dittisham as the other dog waste bins are. (ie to be emptied when required). ACTION: Cllr Neale to make the request for bin collection to SHDC.

9.5 Matters from cllrs for information
9.5.1 Sign at the end of the barrier at the Junction of Higher St and Lower St (Shute Hill). It was noted that the sign has now been ‘amended’ so that it doesn’t indicate that there is a route down Shute Hill to Lower St and has reflective strips on the back so that it is visible in the dark.
9.5.2 New dittisham.com website To note a new website set up by the organisers of the Dittisham music Festival. Cllrs are informed that the Music festival is advertised on this new site and on the DPC website under the title ‘Music in Dittisham’
9.5.3 Sign Post to Bosomzeal It was noted that the sign has finally been reinstated

10 Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee (DVHMC) / DPC reports Reports had been circulated and noted.

11 Neighbourhood Plan It was noted that the next meeting will take place at 7pm Weds 10 Sept in the Village Hall

12 The Level Phone Box It was noted that the adoption process is complete and the contract has been signed. It was agreed that consultation should now be undertaken to find out what people want to do with the kiosk.  It was noted that a group of willing people were interested in renovating it.  ACTION: Cllr Bond to produce a poster.  ACTION: The Clerk to make enquiries with the Council’s insurer on what increases there would be to the premium if the kiosk was included on the schedule.  ACTION: The Clerk to add the kiosk to the Register of Assets at the procurement price.

13 Level Car Park Permits To consider response to request for additional permits to the Level Car Park whilst Village Hall wall works are being undertaken. During discussion it was agreed that residents should be aware that they can apply for permits if they want them. It was RESOLVED that the Village Hall Management Committee lead on communication.

14 Potential new car park Note outcome of discussion with the landowner and letter sent. It was noted that the Chair has discussed the matter with the landowner, a letter has not yet been sent whilst discussions are ongoing and the Parish Council are awaiting feedback.

15 Clerk’s Employment _
15.1 Pay award Receive notification of the 2025/26 pay award and agree the relevant increase to the Clerk’s salary from 1^st April 2025 and backpay for staff who have left employment after 1^st April 2025. It was RESOLVED:

• To increase the Clerk’s salary according to the new agreed payscales for 25/26: LC2 spine point 23 increases from 17.29 to 17.85 per hour and backdated to the Clerk’s start date.
• To request the Council’s payroll contractor to calculate the back pay owed to the previous Clerk and for the offer to be made.

15.2 Pension arrangement To note the Clerk’s auto enrolment in the Parish Council’s Pension Scheme and that the Clerk has been informed by letter and the option to opt out.
15.3 Date for meeting of the Personnel Committee It was agreed to meet with the Clerk on the 22 September, to correspond with the end of the Clerk’s the probation period.

16 Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider
To note:

• 02/07/25 #26 2025 [DALC] E-Bulletin Cllrs were informed that this bulletin shares news that the 2025 edition of the Practitioners Guide contains a new Assertion 10 covering digital and data compliance. In addition to requirements related to email management and website accessibility, there is a new requirement for smaller authorities to have an IT Policy (1.54). To assist authorities with meeting this new requirement, the Government Digital Service has provided a template IT policy. Some authorities may already have a policy covering the use of IT equipment by members and officers, such as an acceptable use policy, which would satisfy this requirement. It was RESOLVED that The Clerk produce an IT policy.
• 24/07/2025 CONSULTATION – South Hams Draft Statement of Licensing Policy 2026 – 2031 – Have your Say Cllrs were informed that South Hams District Council is undertaking a consultation process to review its Statement of Licensing Policy which sets out the Council’s approach to licensing in the district. The consultation is open until 30 September 2025 and can be accessed via the following link: https://shlicensingpolicy.commonplace.is/
• 28/07/25 Devon councils unite behind devolution push The Parish Council was informed via press release that Council leaders across Devon have joined forces to call for the creation of a South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA) and have written jointly to Government ministers to further develop enhanced powers and funding for the whole county of Devon through a comprehensive devolution agreement. The proposed South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority would replace the existing Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority
• 30/07/25 We welcome your views on the future of council services Cllrs were informed by press release of a series of events being held in September and October to hear from local residents and communities about Local Government Reorganisation. Engagement events will start at 18:15 and close at 20:00.  Sessions are taking place on 1^st, 2^nd, 7^th, 8^th and 9^th October at the village hall Wembury, Kingsbridge Community College, Cliff House Salcome, Flavel Centre Dartmouth and Follaton House, Totnes respectively.  An online survey (HTML) is also being promoted.
• 30/07/25 #33 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that this bulletin includes information about new budgeting, finance and internal controls courses available and provides information about the new pay rates for Local Government employees. Employers are encouraged to implement this pay award as soon as possible.
• 01/08/25 South West Water Event Cllrs were invited to attend a ‘Lets Talk Water’ event in the afternoon of 22^nd September hosted by South West Water (SWW) and promoted by Devon Community Resilience Forum. There will be three workshops on the importance of community working, challenges and ways to improve collaboration between community groups and organisations such as SWW, with insight from various community groups.
• 06/08/25 #34 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that this bullet includes information about a series of communication and engagement courses taking place in August and September, and notice of the upcoming DALC AGM taking place on 1^st October 2025
• 14/08/25 South Hams Energy Assembly Cllrs have been invited to attend the event in Kingsbridge on 18 October which aims to connect, support and inspire action to accelerate the transition to energy resilience in the South Hams
• 14/08/25 Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service- Community Conversations event Cllrs were informed of an event about road safety, taking place at noon on 10^th
• 26/08/25 August news from Friends of the Dart Cllrs were informed that this issue includes reference to attendance at this year’s Dittisham Regatta, thanking ‘the lovely organising team’ for the invitation. A link was provided to the Friends of the Dart’s water quality testing programme, which publishes the results of regular testing at the Ham.
• 27/08/25 #37 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed this news bulletin highlights a new ‘Managing Projects’ course, and a ‘Writing Grant Applications and Sourcing Funding’ course.

To consider

• 22/07/25 Dittisham DAA Landing site – Annual Re survey Wednesday 11th September 2024 Having reported to Devon Air Ambulance Trust (DAAT) that Dittisham Parish Council had come to the view that as air ambulances has night vision goggles it was an unnecessary expense to repair the landing light, a response was received to clarify DAAT’s position that it is their desire to maintain the lighting systems at as many of the 200+ lit landing site network across Devon as possible, and continue to use them as lit sites. The decision to utilise un-lit/dark sites and to allow crews to land at community landing sites without lighting was made purely to enable sites to remain operational across the network. Should Dittisham Parish Council decide not to replace the lights, it would remain a key landing site for DAAT, and would seek assurances that the site would continue to be available for landing crews.  A Memorandum of Agreement could be put in place to reflect this change in how the site operates, i.e. as a Dark Site.  It was RESOLVED to agree to confirm that the dark site would be available for the landing crews.  It was RESOLVED to cost for either putting in new lights or removing the lighting column into next year’s budget.
• 03/08/25 Picnic Bench Cllrs were informed of an email from a member of public concerned that the picnic benches at the Ham are being moved, suggesting that they should be padlocked to avoid damage. It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council is happy that the benches are mobile, to help the grass.
• 14/08/25 Withdrawal of support of planning application 330/25/FUL A member of the public has written to the Parish Council advise that he has withdrawn personal support for the application and asking the Parish Council to reconsider its position. This was not discussed as the planning application has been refused.
• 19/08/25 The Ham Public Shower Cllrs were informed of a letter from a boat visitor expressing disappointment that the shower block at the Ham has been locked, appealing to the Parish Council that it is reopened. It was commented that there was always a queue to use the shower at the Ham from lots of boat people who would then go to the Red Lion for a meal or drink. It was commented that it could be advertised in the River Dart users guide, issued to boat visitors every year.  ACTION: The Clerk to raise reinstatement with the relevant officer at SHDC, and to inform the correspondent that the matter has been referred to the relevant authority.  The Parish Council would be in support of the shower being operational.
• 20/08/25 Peninsula Transport £100k Rural Mobility Fund A second round of funding available via the Rural Mobility Pilot Scheme, aimed at rural transport schemes that improve connectivity in harder to reach places within the South West. Pilots can be submitted by local authorities, public sector organisations, businesses, charities or community organisations. Applications close on 5^th ACTION: The Clerk to forward the information to Cllr Hawkes.
• 25/08/25 Tree survey Cllrs are informed of a query concerning any works the Parish Council has planned for a large tree at the entrance to the Level Car Park, concerned for the potential risk to their neighbouring property. A copy of the most recent tree survey has been requested. It was noted that the Tree survey has not yet been conducted and that any action that needs taking will be taken.
• 28/08/25 Public Footpath No.7 Dittisham at Capton Cross Cllrs were informed that the public rights of way team at DCC has been asked to look at Footpath No.7, Dittisham with regards to diverting the path away from the barns and garden. Landowners haven’t suggested where the path could be re-routed so no action has been carried out yet. The Parish Council is asked if it is known if the path is well used or used at all?  A map has been shared showing the path crossing diagonally over the garden & field of the property adjacent to Capton Cross. The councils interactive mapping is available and can be viewed from the Public Rights of Way page at https://www.devon.gov.uk/prow/  for a better view. It was RESOLVED to respond that the footpath is used.  ACTION: Cllr Neale to follow up with the PROW officer.

17 Next Meeting The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 1 October 2025 at 7:00 pm.

Meeting closed at 9:25pm

Download approved minutes of the September meeting of Dittisham Parish Council here (PDF)
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Approved Minutes 2025 July 02

Jul 21, 2025 | Minutes

APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 2 July 2025 at 7:00p.m.

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), Golding, J Green, Hawkes, Pope & Unitt were present, as were D.Cllr McKay, C.Cllr  Rake, C Radford (Clerk). No members of the public were present.
Apologies: Cllrs N Green (Vice-Chair) & Neale

a) Welcome the incoming Clerk The Chair formally welcomed the Clerk to Dittisham Parish Council
b) Public Forum No members of the public were present.

1. Apologies were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests Cllr Bond declared an interest in item 2, payment 2507_2.
3. Approval of Minutes
   3.1 the monthly meeting held on 4 June 2025
   3.2 the Extraordinary General Meeting held on 18 June 2025
   It was RESOLVED to sign minutes at 3.1 as an accurate record and to sign the minutes at 3.2 with a minor amendment.

4. Community Reports
   4.1 South Hams District Council (SHDC) Councillor (D.Cllr) The following update was given:

• The D.Cllr encouraged all to attend Local Government Reorganisation consultation and give thoughts on the various options that have been proposed. The 4-5-1 option (4: a unitary authority combining, South Hams, Teignbridge, West Devon, and Torbay; 5: a unitary authority combining East, Mid, North Devon, Torridge, and Exeter and 1: Retaining Plymouth unitary authority on its existing boundary) being the preferred option.
• Neighbourhood Plan Funding has ceased. The D.Cllr has queried if SHDC officers intend to lobby Government.
• SHDC’s draft 2024/5 accounts are published. Due to injection of £0.5m from business rates, funds are in the black.
• A collaborative water quality testing initiative aims to provide real time readings of river water to a website.
• A Devon wide Forest Plan has been adopted.
• A review of the Joint Local Plan will put SHDC in a much stronger position to respond to new expected housing figures, which have more than doubled. Plymouth will no longer be included.
• A round table to support collaboration amongst organisations delivering community transport has been arranged for July 30 to support sharing of resources and to decrease use of cars.
• A meeting about South Hams Festival to support messages about the environment and climate change is taking place on July 15
  4.2 Devon County Council (DCC) Councillor (C.Cllr) The following update was given:
• DCC is starting work on a new Council Plan for period to 2029, despite the context of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Cllrs were urged to respond to consultation on LGR.  The C.Cllr commented that what matters is the delivery of services and democratic accountability and is of the view that the 4-5-1 proposal would seem to be the best approach looking at proposals through that lens. Following queries from cllrs, the C.Cllr and D.Cllr commented that 4-5-1 delivers better services and accountability because it remains on a manageable scale.  District wards have a population of approximately 2-3K and County Divisions approximately 10K..A whole Devon approach would have either too many cllrs making business difficult under a party-political structure, or the system would lose contact with communities.  The geographical make-up of 4-5-1 is grouping areas that have more in common. Some Councils within the structure already have shared management.  It was noted that to manage their population, Cornwall Council has now divided ‘Management Areas’ that reflect the old districts that existed before they became a unitary authority.
• Social Care and Children’s Services are a Council priority. Poor performance in the latter has been improving.  There is now greater emphasis of early intervention reducing the need for more costly interventions later and slowing the flow of children going into care.  DCC is considering the option of bringing Highways maintenance back under Council management.  It was noted that most of DCC services are statutory requirements, but not all. DCC will be looking at how those speculative services are passed on to the new authority.
• Cllrs commented that the main issue around potholes is that don’t maintain roads properly in the first place.

5. Financial Matters
   5.1 Payments made between meetings It was noted the following payments had been made:

• Payment to Clear Insurance Management Limited invoice LCO02274 for Local Councils Insurance Renewal = £918.64 no VAT
  5.2 Payments It was RESOLVED to authorise the following payments:
• Payment 2507_1 to Community Heartbeat Trust invoice 26599 for Annual Support Cost Year 2 (in 4 Year terms) at £165 plus £33 VAT = £198
• Payment 2507_2 to Richard Bond as reimbursement for purchase of 25KG Black Bitumen at £9.33 plus £1.87 VAT = £11.20
• Payment 2507_ 3 to Parish and Town Audit Service invoice IA015025 for Internal Audit = £195 no VAT
• Payment 2507_4 for Car Park Attendant Contract in June = £150
• Payment 2507_6 to Arccas invoice 39 for grounds maintenance services carried out during the month preceding the invoice date, as per ongoing contract agreement at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
• Payment 2507_7 to Arccas invoice 40 for grounds maintenance services carried out during the month preceding the invoice date, as per ongoing contract agreement at £500 plus £100 VAT = £600
• It was RESOLVED that regular invoices expected in August from suppliers under contract should be paid as received.
  5.3 Annual Tree Survey It was RESOLVED to accept quotation of £582 from Dart Forest Trees for annual inspection of trees at The Ham, The Level Car Park and Capton Triangle.
  5.4 Printer After discussion it was RESOLVED to approve the purchase of a new printer of a cost of approximately £100. It was noted to take the ongoing costs of ink into account when selecting the printer.
  5.5 ESET It was RESOLVED to renew of ESET Home Security (antivirus and secure banking browsing) due to expire for 1 year at a cost of £35.99.

6. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions The following decisions were noted:
   6.1 0645/25/FUL Kelbechan House, Capton, TQ6 0JE. Erection of small ground mounted solar array Conditional Approval.
   6.2 1506/25/ARC Fairholme, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS Application for approval of details reserved by condition 7 (Hard & Soft Landscape) of planning consent 1476/24/FUL Discharge of Condition Refused
7. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority:
   7.1 1718/25/HHO and 1719/25/LBC The Old Bakehouse, Manor Street, Dittisham, TQ6 0EX Householder application and Listed Building Consent to renovate dwelling, including alterations & extensions to rear hall & loft area to create new bedroom suite. It was RESOLVED to OBJECT to the planning application on the grounds of over development:

• View (of the development) from the river and view from the lane.
• Scale of the development out of keeping with the listed building and will have a negative impact on surrounding buildings, being in a conservation area and Grade II listed.
• The Parish Council object to the property becoming a 4 bedroom property overburdening services and increase in traffic.
• If SHDC is minded to give consent, a site management plan and traffic management plan would need to be put in place, given its location.
  7.2 1852/25/FUL Newstone, Blackawton, TQ9 7DR Agricultural Building extending to 27.43 x 6.09m, 4.58m to ridge and 3.22m to ridge. It was RESOLVED MAKE NO COMMENT on the application.

8. New Tree Applications To consider a recommendation to the planning authority:
   8.1 0320/25/TPO Rose Orchard Lower Street Dittisham TQ6 0HY G2: Holm Oak – Full crown reduction of up to 1.5m to manage canopy growth. (Pre pruning dimensions: H. 14m W.12m. Post pruning dimensions: H. 12.5m W.10.5m). It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application
9. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
   9.1 Emergency Plan It was reported three quotations were obtained to deliver an ‘Emergency First Aid at Work’ course for 12 people on Monday 29^th First Aid 4 Life was the cheapest quote. The course will be free for attendees. There was discussion on arrangements for storage of Emergency Lions bottles for collection.  It was RESOLVED that Cllr Unitt and The Clerk liaise on the purchase of 500 business cards for a cost of approximately £80.
10. The Level Phone Box It was noted that the first stage of the adoption process has been completed.
11. Neighbourhood Plan (NP) It was reported that approximately 13 -14 attended a meeting on 25^th June, where attendees talked about the scope of the NP and how best to take it forwards. It was noted that despite funding of £10,000 available for NP groups being no longer available, the group was still minded to continue. Those who attended will form a Steering Group for the NP and agreed to meet again in September to discuss a Mission Statement and a first draft questionnaire for village circulation. There was discussion on whether Dittisham join with other parishes to benefit from economies of scale, however there was consensus that there was a different agenda for the Parish of Dittisham and keeping the plan contained and succinct was the best way forward.
12. Potential new car park Discussion following enquiries on land availability. Following discussion it was RESOLVED that the chair speak with the landowner to establish the current position with the land.  The Parish Council would then follow this up with a letter if the landowner and communicate the outcome to the Village Hall committee. 
13. Clerk’s Employment
    13.1 Contract Cllrs had the opportunity to review the Clerk’s contract of employment. It was RESOLVED to approve the contract.
    13.2 Payroll To consider payroll arrangements It was RESOLVED to continue to use payroll services provide by South Hams District Council and review if necessary.
14. Correspondence and Contacts To note or consider:

• 12/06/25 Dittisham Music Festival section on the Parish Council Website. It’s been noticed that the Parish website has a section for the regatta but not for the festival. An enquiry has been raised asking if a ‘music in Dittisham’ section could be added to help publicise events throughout the year. RESOLVED: No objections. 
• 12/06/25 Please register your [defibrillator] site on ‘The Circuit’ Ambulance services across the country have changed how they register defibrillator sites, which are now required to be registered on ‘The Circuit’, an online system managed by the British Heart Foundation. Separate registration is required for each defibrillator and a status check is required at least once every 90 days. A link is provided with a comprehensive breakdown of the differences between The Circuit and WebNos. RESOLVED: ACTION: Cllr Bond to look into it.
• 17/06/25 Have your say on the future of Devon. The District Council is asking everyone with a connection to the South Hams what matters to them to help shape devolution proposals.  A range of consultation events are taking place and a short survey is being circulated: southhams.gov.uk/local-government-reorganisation RESOLVED: Cllrs to respond individually.
• 18/06/25 #26 2025 [DALC] E-Bulletin Cllrs were informed this bulletin includes news that the Government has announced plans to amend legislation to allow local authorities (including parish and town councils) to hold remote and hybrid meetings. The Government also intends to introduce legislation to permit proxy voting.
• 18/06/25 Town & Parish Council Briefing: Local Government Reorganisation Cllrs are invited to a one hour online briefing at 17:30 on 23^rd The Leader and Chief Executive of South Hams District Council invite Town and Parish colleagues to hear about progress and give feedback on plans to help shape them up.  A formal invite with Teams meeting link has been sent to the Clerk.  The D.Cllr had also agreed to circulate. Noted.
• 19/06/25 Consultations on the South Devon National Landscape Management Plan Review The ‘Around the Dart Estuary’ cluster meeting previously advertised has been merged with the ‘Start to Stoke Fleming’ cluster and will take place at 6pm on 11^th Bookings through Ticketsource. Noted.

15. Next Meeting: It was confirmed that the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday 3^rd September 2025 at 7:00 pm.

Meeting closed at 20:53.

Download APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council from 2nd July 2025 (PDF)
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Approved Minutes 2025 June 04

Jun 7, 2025 | Minutes

APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 June 2025 at 7:00p.m.

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), N Green (Vice-Chair), Golding, J Green, Hawkes, Neale, & Unitt were present, as were A Thom, Clerk, and two members of the public were present until the end of Minutes Item 5 (St George’s grant application).
Absent: Cllr Pope

a) Public Forum
i) 0330/25/FUL The Old Rectory, Rectory Lane – Planning Application
The applicant described the proposal. If approved it would allow them to expand the use of the properly to host charitable groups connected to a specific charity for retreats and small courses. No structural changes are proposed. The potential increase in traffic will be reduced by the use of an electric mini bus from Totnes, and possibly a boat bus from Totnes. They would employ local staff and cooking would be done on-site.
ii) Application for a Grant from DPC for Grounds Maintenance of St George’s Churchyard
A representative of the Church discussed the application briefly and was available to answer questions.

1. Apologies:
   Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Pope and DCC Cllr Rake.

2. Declaration of Interests
   None declared.

3. Election of Vice-Chair
   It was resolved to elect Cllr N Green as Vice-Chair. Their Declaration of Acceptance of Office was signed.

4. Approval of Minutes
   It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 7 May 2025 (with MN 4.2 amended to name Cllr Brazil as leader of SHDC.)

5. Application for a Grant from DPC for Grounds Maintenance of St George’s Churchyard
   This item was moved up the Agenda at the Chair’s discretion. It was resolved to authorise a grant of £1,250.

6. Community Reports
   6.1 Devon County Council Councillor
   DCC Cllr Rake had sent a written report in advance of the meeting, please see below. Cllrs identified as the priorities for Highways maintenance work: the road from Mill Creek to Bruckton and the road from Downton Cross to Kingston (as far as the T intersection).The Annual Meeting of Devon County Council on 22 May approved appointments to Cabinet and various other positions of responsibility (notably the Chairmanship of committees).
   The Liberal Democrat group, being the largest party, will run the Council, with other parties represented in Cabinet [..] and as Chairs or Vice Chairs of several committees.
   Without an overall majority, the Liberal Democrat team will have to rely on the support of Councillors from other parties when bringing motions to the Council. For this to succeed we will need to work closely with other Councillors and be open, cooperative and transparent in our communications.
   Hopefully this will result in better policies, with a broad base of support within the Council.
   On more local matters, I have made contact with our Local Highways Officer and we will be doing a thorough tour of the area soon. Please do get in touch if there are any roads of particular concern and I will add them to my already fairly lengthy list.
   I have already received a number of requests for support from my Localities Fund. I have arranged to meet the Officer who managed these budgets on Tuesday 10 June, and hopefully will be able to make progress on applications straight away after that.
   6.2 South Hams District Council Councillor
   Deferred in the absence of SHDC Cllr McKay.

7. Financial Matters
   7.1 24/25 Annual Governance and Accountability Return
   7.1.1 24/25 Internal Audit
   The Report was discussed. It states that all control objectives were met. They have recommended that the Financial Regulations and Standing Orders be updated to the current versions, uploading more information [specified] to the website to improve transparency, and that Budget Monitoring reports from the accounting system are reviewed by the Full Council as part of the financial information presented on at least a quarterly basis.
   7.1.2 24/25 Audit Annual Governance Statement
   It was resolved to approve the Statement.
   7.1.3 Signature of the Audit Annual Governance Statement
   The Statement was signed by the Chair and the Clerk
   7.1.4 24/25 Audit Accounting Statements
   The Accounting Statements were considered.
   7.1.5 24/25 Audit Accounting Statements
   It was resolved to approve the Statements.
   7.1.6 2021/22 Audit Accounting Statements
   The Statements were signed by the Chair of the Meeting.
   7.1.7 Publication of Notice of Public Rights & Publication of Annual Governance & Accountability Return
   It was agreed that the Return & Notice will be published with inspection dates 9 June 2025 to 18 July 2025.7.2 Payments It was resolved to authorise the following three payments:

• Clerk May Expenses Reimbursement £34.52
• Devon Association of Local Councils Being a Good Councillor #3, £18.00
• the current Clerk’s final payslip as provided.

The payments made since the last monthly meeting were noted:

• Installation of middle rail in a private residence access steps railing on The Ham, £298.29
• Quarter 4 24/25 VAT payment to HMRC £481.07 by direct debit
• 25/26 Maintenance Grant to Village Hall Management Committee, £4,000
• Car Park Attendant Contract April and May 2025, two payments of £150 each

The following receipts were noted:

• Donation from ‘Kids Sea and Soil Event’ on The Ham, £50
• Good will refund of first bank fee payment to Lloyd Bank, because of Lloyds’ start date error, £4.25
• Refund from DCC for DPC’s overpayment for HGV signs in 2020, £169.25

The planned transfer of funds from NatWest current account to 95 day notice account (£8,000) and 35 day notice account (£1,000) was noted. Cllr Unitt will try to make the transfer over the phone. If this is not possible a written instruction signed in accordance with the mandate needs to taken into a branch by signatory with their ID. The 95 day notice account holds the three earmarked replacement reserves.

7.3 Financial Reports
The Reports provided to Finance Working Group and the Bank Reconciliations to 30 April 2025 were noted.
7.4 Direct Debits
It was resolved to authorise the payment by direct debit of DPC’s HP Instant Ink subscription £6.49/month incl VAT.
It was agreed that the Jottacloud and Lebara payment accounts will be changed to Cllr Neale’s account (payment by direct debit is not offered).
It was noted that an alternative DPC payment card needs to be chosen because Zempler Bank has not processed the account requested by DPC. It was agreed that Zempler Bank will be asked by the Clerk to cancel the current request.  

8. Car Parks Receipts and Payments arrangements with SHDC
   It was noted that the Reimbursement by SHDC for the January to March receipts and DPC’s reimbursement to SHDC for its costs over the same period, which were due in April, have been delayed until the reporting system from PayByPhone is established. Ideally the funds need to to be reimbursed by 30 June at latest to report VAT in the standard quarter.

9. Parish Council Insurance
   The current Policy expires on 2 July. DPC has a long term agreement, however the underwriting insurer has changed. The Clerk said that the renewal documents need careful review by DPC as soon as possible, including to ensure that the Old Chapel Burial Ground wall continues to be covered for subsidence and that the car park attendant contractor continues to be covered by DPC’s Policy. When the insurance was reviewed in 2024 the current insurer was the only one which offered those two provisions.
10. Vacancy for Parish Clerk & RFO
    Cllr Golding left the meeting.
    Cllr Neale provided a verbal update on the recruitment process. Interviews have been scheduled. The Clerk restated their view that a Report is needed from the Personnel Committee to justify and explain to Cllrs the proposed changes to the role’s profile and the core hours allocation, and the related consideration of risks and benefits. The Committee is delegated authority by DPC to conduct a recruitment process and make recommendations to the Council about the terms of employment, but the authority to decide those remains with the full Council, and that the Committee should know what offer it has the Parish Council’s support to make to the successful candidate. It was agreed to hold an Extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 18 June at 7:00 pm for the purpose of appointing a Clerk and agreeing the terms of their contract.
    The meeting agreed that Cllr Neale will act as Temporary Clerk after the current Clerk finishes on 9 June, and Cllr N Green will act as Temporary RFO. A Cllr RFO risk assessment had not been carried out and was discussed. Cllr N Green is a Lloyds bank account signatory and will be responsible for setting up payments as required. He is not permitted to act as a signatory and authorise the payments that he has set up.
    Cllr Golding returned to the meeting.

11. Vacancy for a Parish Councillor
    The current vacancy was noted. It was agreed that Cllrs will continue to discuss the role with potential candidates but that advertising will be reviewed and restarted in September. Two vacancy posters will be posted: on the Red Lion Noticeboard and on the DPC noticeboard. There is a vacancy notice on the Parish website.

12. New Planning Applications
    12.1 0330/25/FUL The Old Rectory Rectory Lane Dittisham TQ6 0HD. Change of use of property from dwelling (C3) to mixed use , including dwelling, training/learning centre & work retreat (sui generis).
    Support (by resolution).
    It was resolved that Dittisham Parish Council will request the condition that if this application is approved, approval is granted as a personal consent.
    12.2 1506/25/ARC Fairholme, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 7 (Hard & Soft Landscape) of planning consent 1476/24/FUL.
    Support (by resolution).
    12.2 New Pavement Licence application Sloping Deck Bakery Dartmouth TQ6 9PZ .
    Closed 20 May. No comment made by DPC.

13. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
    13.1 Communicating Emergency Plan and Phone Number
    It was resolved that DPC will arrange a letter box drop to circulate business cards (text as per Cllr Unitt’s Report), the dates for a first aid course in September 2025, and information about the scheme for medication information bottles for emergency services. Bottles will be placed in the Hall. The same information on the business cards will be added to the DPC noticeboard and to the Parish website.
    1,000 cards will be ordered at a cost of £80 plus £5,delivery, plus VAT. A database of first aiders was discussed.
    13.2 Jubilee Steps Handrail
    It was resolved to approve an advance payment of up to £200 for a S171 licence application as per correspondence provided to DPC. Cllr Unitt will advise the contractor.
    13.3 Resident’s Request for a Dog poo bin in Capton
    The Report from Cllr Neale on their consultation with Capton residents was noted. On that basis it was agreed not to proceed with installing a dog poo bin. The SHDC Localities team has been asked to make some visits to Capton.
    13.4 Car Parks
    The request from a user of the car park to mark spaces in order to accommodate more vehicles was considered. The view of Cllrs is that this is not feasible and will not be progressed.
    13.5 Events
    It was resolved to approve the request to hire The Ham for a Games day during Dittisham Regatta as per the request submitted.
14. The Level Phone Box
    It was resolved to adopt the red phone box, which BT has given notice it will otherwise remove.

15. Environment Agency National Monitoring Field Team’s Parking Request
    It was resolved to agree to the request for 30 minutes free parking for 17 badged vans visiting to sample water in the River Dart on the basis that a system can be put in place by SHDC. DPC has been advised by the requestor that SHDC already has comparable permissions in place.
16. To consider approval of revised Standing Orders (new Model Orders).
    It was resolved to approve the revised Standing Orders as circulated.

17. To consider approval of revised Financial Regulations (new Model Regulations).
    It was resolved to approve the revised Financial Regulations as circulated.
18. Correspondence and Contacts with DPC
    The following correspondence was noted or considered:

• 9/5/25 Barrier Higher Street/Shute Lane – Lower Street, removed by HGV, reported to DCC.Temporary barrier installed same day.
• 6/5/25 South Hams Way Shared way marker locations for route in Dittisham.
• Invitation – South Devon National Landscape Estuaries Environmental Management Plan, Online 5/6/25 18:00.
• Invitation – South Devon Catchments Partnership Summer Meeting, Kingsbridge estuary walk, 4/6/25 15:00–17:30.
• 24/5/25 Report received from a resident about Bees on the path from Car Park to Dittisham Sailing Club.
  The meeting was told that there are currently no bees.

19. Next Meeting
    It was confirmed the next monthly meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 2 July 2025 at 7:00 pm.As recorded above there will be an Extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 18 June at 7:00 pm.

20. Closure of the Meeting
    It was resolved, in accordance with the 1960 Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act to exclude the public and press during consideration of the following item(s) because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
21. Management of a Freehold Title
    It was resolved to agree the Report’s recommendations to review if the property changes ownership, and to review whether there is a benefit to the Parish for DPC to continue to own the freehold in the long-term.

The meeting closed at 21:11.