APPROVED Minutes 2026 March 4

Mar 23, 2026 | Minutes

Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 March 2026 at 7:00pm

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), Golding, J Green, N Green, Hawkes, Neale, Unitt & Taylor were present, as was C Radford (Clerk). C.Cllr Rake was present for part of the meeting. 2 members of the public attended.
Apologies: Cllr Pope, D.Cllr McKay

Public Forum No issues were raised in the public session

1. Apologies were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests To declare interests on items on the agenda. Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Neale on item 5.7 payment 2603_5.  Cllr Bond on item 5.7 payment 2603_9.
3. Approval of Minutes To consider approval of the minutes of monthly meeting held on February 4 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the meeting as an accurate record without amendments.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor (D.Cllr) The D.Cllr had given apologies, and raised two matters via the Clerk:
– Operation of Leisure Centres South Hams District Council (SHDC) has various options available to it which will be discussed by the Council’s Executive. All are likely to be expensive.
– National Planning Policy Framework Briefing The D.Cllr encouraged engagement with the briefing in relation to Neighbourhood Planning.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor
– Devon County Council (DCC) Budget It was reported that the budget was passed last week. The Financial Settlement from Government was better than expected, however the burden of finance of local government is being shifted from general taxation to local taxation.  County level council tax can’t be put up beyond the 4.9% limit set and can’t put it up by less otherwise the Council risks ‘stepping off the escalator’.  Budget headlines include a total of £19M for highways, and £4m fund for potholes, white-lining and vegetation. This is still not enough but an improvement on last year.  There is a 7% increase in Children’s Services.  The proposed budget cut for Libraries has been reversed.  A £1M reserve has been set to support the transformation.
– Libraries The consultation for libraries has closed, 20,000 representations. The outcome of the consultation has been called in for review. The whole of the cabinet is from the same political wing, and no one came into politics to shut or damage libraries.  It was commented that the comms around the consultation has been poor, as it was intended to support a vision for a transformed library service which was turned into consultation on reduction in services.
– Fostering New arrangements offer better terms with reduced bureaucracy for fostering parents.
– Torcross The C.Cllr is proud of the County’s response to the collapsed road at Torcross. Officers have done everything they could do to support the acute problem, the chronic problem still needs consideration.
5. Financial Matters
5.1 Grant Applications To note grant applications received and agree process for consideration. It was noted that applications have been received from West Dart Bus and Dittisham Store. Applications will be reviewed first by the Finance Committee before making a recommendation to the Parish Council.  ACTION: The Clerk to invite Dittisham Stores to the April meeting of the Parish Council to present their application. It was noted that there is a public meeting about the shop taking place on April 1 between 5 – 7pm to which cllrs may also wish to attend.
5.2 2026/27 Car Parking Tariff increases To consider quotation from Metric Group to update tariffs from 01/04/26 It was RESOLVED to accept the quotation of £219 plus VAT to change the tariff on 2 car park machines and to raise a purchase order as requested by the supplier. It was noted that the last cash reconciliation noted some inconsistencies between the cash counted and the amounts recorded.   It was agreed to ask Metric to check the machines if there are still inconsistencies in March.
5.3 2025/26 Internal Audit To confirm arrangements for internal auditor contract Cllrs were informed that the internal auditor that provided audit services to the Parish Council in 2024/25 was available to undertake the 2025/26 audit at a cost of £195 no VAT.  It was RESOLVED to contract PATAS to undertake the 2025/26 audit, as independent and competent.
5.4 Red Lion ground rent To consider response to Red Lion’s query on ground rent arrangements. It was RESOLVED to note that the virtual payment of the peppercorn rent for 2025 has been paid. ACTION: The Clerk to relay this to the Red Lion and to confirm the dates on which the annual peppercorn rent is due, as 26^th July each year.
5.5 Maintenance Contracts
5.5.1 Grounds Maintenance Contract To consider contract extension letter and approval of proposed payment schedule It was RESOLVED to approve the contract extension letter as produced by the Clerk and to simplify the payment schedule spreading the £4300 + VAT contract across 10 monthly payments of £430 + VAT per month from March to December.
5.5.2 Maintenance Works – Various To consider quotations received in response to brief for works It was RESOLVED to contract the services of Jon Hodge for maintenance works at a cost of £2650, no VAT. Works include 1:  Laying two sections of concrete foundation along the base of the Ham wall to prevent undermining of wall by wave action.  2: Replace 3 posts in the Ham Car Park; 3: Replace 1 slat on bench on the Ham; 4: To repair wall in the culvert next to the footpath to sailing club; 5: Fix guttering to the bus stop on Riverside Road.
5.6 Receipts and Payments between meetings the following was noted:
Payment 2602_8 Lloyds bank fee  = £4.25
5.7 March Payments for authorisation It was RESOLVED to authorise the following payments:
– Payment 2602_1 to HMRC for Quarter 3 VAT Payment = £2550.88
– Payment 2603_1 Nest Pensions for Pension contributions on Clerk’s Feb Salary = £39.61 no VAT
– Payment 2603_2 to CRadford February Clerk Salary (month 11) = £877.61 no VAT
– Payment 2603_3 to HMRC for Tax and NI on Clerk’s February Salary = £262.49 no VAT
– Payment 2603_4 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Feb) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2603_5 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Feb at 12EUR per month (£10.55) and Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Jan at £4.08 plus 82p VAT per month = £15.45
– Payment 2603_6 to Judge’s Web Design for INV003128 Hosting Renewal Standard Hosting Package – 1 Year: dittishamparish.co.uk and 12 March > @ £80 no VAT. Website Hosting: Backups & WordPress updates – 1 Year 12 March > @ £60 no VAT = £140
– Payment 2603_7 to Lazerpics for inv 32144 200 x Full colour reverse print onto Clear vinyl with White backing contour cut to shape window stickers inside stick 74mm Dia Ref: Car Park Permits 01-04-25 / 31-03-26 @138.00 plus VAT.  Set up @ 10.00 plus VAT Postage & Packing @ 15.00 plus VAT = £195.60
– Payment 2603_8 to HMRC for interest of Q3 VAT payment = £8.66
– Payment 2603_9 to RBond for reimbursement: HP Instant Ink at £3.74 plu £0.75 VAT = £4.49
– Payment 2603_10 to South Hams District Council Invoice: 22389350 Cashless Processing fees for 1st October 2025 to 31st December 2025 for The Level and The Hams Cashless Income at £212.50 plus £42.50 VAT = £255
– Payment 2603_11 to Dittisham Village Hall for 3 meetings at 2025 rate. 3 x DPC Monthly meetings at 2026 rate.  1 x 2 hour meeting in School Room at 2026 rate at £149.16 plus £29.83 VAT = £178.99
6. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions To note the following:
6.1 3733/25/PDM Land At Sx 848 537 (Little Coombe Barn) Dittisham Application to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed change of use of agricultural building to 1No dwellinghouse (Class C3) & for associated development (Class Q (a+b)) REFUSED
6.2 0049/26/TCA 2 Watermans Cottage Manor Street Dittisham: Ash – remove, die back present. T3: Maple – reduce by 1/3 all over, to reduce risk of branch failure. APPROVED
6.3 0071/26/TCA Laburnum Cottage Manor Street Dittisham: T80: Oak – remove dead wood. A,B,D,E,T88,T87: Ash – remove deadwood and Ivy. T83: Acer – remove Ivy. G84: x3 Sycamore – remove Ivy. T81,T82,T86,T85,C: Ash – fell, due to Dieback. APPROVED
7. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
7.1 3607/25/FUL Red Lion Inn, The Level, Dittisham, READVERTISEMENT (amended description & revised plans) Construction of ground floor bay window, rear first floor extension, installation of 3.no Juliet balconies, & roof light It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
7.2 0022/26/HHO Herongate, Lower Street, Dittisham, Householder application for new incidental outbuilding It was RESOLVED to OBJECT TO the application with the following comments:
– Inappropriate development in a conservation area
– Inappropriate development in a national landscape
– visual impact from the river
8. Blackberry Cottage Surface Water Drainage
8.1 Update To receive an update following cllrs attendance at a site meeting, advice received as requested, and note receipt of an updated Drainage Risk Assessment and Draining Strategy from the applicant’s consultants

It was reported that cllrs Bond and Taylor met with PCA, the structural engineers who compiled the surface water drainage report.   The meeting clarified that the ‘infrastructure’ would stop at the boundary line and the clean surface water run off would run into the culvert.  The view was that the easement wouldn’t be required, and no commercial benefit would be appropriate.
It was requested whether the photographs provided giving an example of the pipe on the boundary be included in the report, and that the type of tank be specified: i.e. replacement of the sceptic tank with a digester system.
It was also noted that the Construction Management Plan has been provided.  The Parish Council had raised concerns about access to the lane.  The Construction Management Plan confirms that the logistics will come via the Dart, and up the path to the rear of the property, and completed at high tide, so it shouldn’t interrupt public access.
The owner confirmed that the gulley would be cleared regularly.
8.2 Request for Parish Council permission To consider the owner’s request to obtain the Parish Council’s permission in writing to cross third-party land and connect the surface water drainage to the watercourse for the life of the development. It was RESOLVED to confirm to South Hams District Council that based on the PCA report of 2026, there is not easement required on for the surface water drainage from the property to flow into the culvert that exists on the Parish Council land.
Members of the public left the meeting.
Cllrs raised some concerns about the track leading from the foreshore alongside Lod Cottage to Blackberry Cottage being degraded as a result of the contractors’ use. It was agreed to raise this with the landowner in correspondence and get confirmation that it would be restored if damaged.
9. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
9.1 Neighbourhood Plan To receive an update Cllrs were informed that a Neighbourhood Plan page has been added to the Parish Council’s website. South Hams District Council (SHDC) has apologised for the delay in signing off on the Parish Council’s Reg 5 application for designation of a neighbourhood area.  The legal team has yet to sign this off.
9.2 West Dart Bus To receive an update The new bus has arrived and is now parked on Riverside Road. It will go on its first community transport trip this week.
9.3 Dittisham Village Hall To receive reports to and from the Committee meeting Reports were circulated. The notes reported that the committee could not change the Village Hall’s financial year end to align with the Parish Council’s financial year. ACTION:  Cllr Unitt will follow up with a query as to why.
10. Clerk’s update
– Pensions Regulator The Clerk has made the necessary redeclaration to the Pension’s Regulator, due this year.
– Play Park inspection Booked The Annual Play Inspection has been booked to take place during March. A fee of £50 would be levied if the Parish Council wished to meet the inspector on site. The Clerk has opted to be set up on the system as an ‘Automatic’ client with RosPA, unless otherwise instructed. It was RESOLVED to hold off on this until the next inspection has been received.
– Car Parking Stickers 180 car parking stickers have been purchased by Dittisham Sailing Club. An invoice has been raised and the stickers have changed hands.
– VAT Despite the VAT100 form being completed, and payment signed off by the Parish Council, there was an error in the return being filed with HMRC. On review of the Clerk’s appeal, HMRC cancelled the late submission penalty point issued. An interest payment is due, and appears on the March payment schedule.
11. Potential new car park and burial ground To receive an update following meeting held on 2^nd March and consider proposals going forward. Those who had attended an information sharing meeting with proposed project managers of the potential new car park and burial ground site updated other members.  It was reiterated that the Parish Council had agreed to be the named party on an options agreement for the land and cover legal fees of up to £2000.  The meeting of the March 2 informed cllrs that further funding of approximately £10,000 would need to be raised to support a comprehensive preapplication process.  The Parish Council has been identified as a potential source for that funding, alongside the Red Lion, the Village Hall, St George’s Church and the Dittisham Charity.  It was noted that this expenditure would be speculative, as there are no guarantees that planning would be successful. During discussion, cllrs considered the potential beneficiaries, potential liabilities, and agreed that further consultation in the community would be required before going down a preplanning route, particularly if the precept is raised to finance the project.

It was RESOLVED that process should be taken a step at a time.  The Parish Council will pursue the Options Agreement, as already agreed, and work with the project managers to develop a consultation/communication process with the Parish, noting that the Neighbourhood Planning process would provide a helpful framework for that consultation process.  It was proposed to form a working group of all interested parties, with representation from the Parish Council, should Parish residents be in support of the project.
12. Lengthsman Contract To note current contract is due to expire on 31/03/26. Consider arrangements from 01/04/26. It was RESOLVED to readvertise the contract. ACTION: The Clerk to write to the Lengthsman to advise him.
13. Trees on Ham Lane Consider request made to the Parish Council for trees on the north bank to be cut back. It was reported that there is a TPO in place.  It was RESOLVED to ask for the trees to be included in the next tree survey.
14. Devon Local Government Reorganisation Proposals to discuss proposals ahead of consultation closure on March 26 2026. Not discussed.
15 Internal Audit: Assertion 10 compliance To consider actions required for completion before March 31 2026.
– Digital Compliance
It was confirmed a council-owned domain is in place for website and staff emails and no action is required.
It was confirmed a role based email for the clerk is in place and no action is required.
It was confirmed that the Parish Council has adopted an IT policy was adopted and no action is required.
It was noted that the Parish Council’s website was last reviewed in November 2024. It was RESOLVED to contract Judges Web Design to undertake a review before March 31 2026 at a cost of £80.
GDPR/Data protection
It was noted that the Parish Council has an ‘Information Management Requirements Policy’ that references Data Protection last reviewed in April 2023. It was RESOLVED that the Clerk produce a Data Protection Policy for consideration by the Parish Council at the earliest convenience.
It was noted that there is no:
– Training programme in place for both staff and Councillors on GDPR principles and requirements.
– Policies and Procedures for subject access requests and data breaches in place.
– Data Protection Impact Assessment procedure in place to cover any additional services.
It was RESOLVED that the Clerk produce policies for consideration by the Parish Council at the earliest convenience, and for these policies to confirm appropriate and secure technical and organisational measures are in place to protect personal data from breaches.
16 Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider
To note:
– South Devon National Landscape (SDNL) Partnership – 13 March at 1000 The Parish Council was informed Partnership meetings are broadcast live to the South Devon National Landscape YouTube channel allowing observers to follow the meeting remotely. Videos remain available on the YouTube channel until draft meeting minutes are published on the website.
– Dittisham village hall website Cllrs were informed that Dittisham Village Hall is currently looking at setting up a page on the new com website for the village hall. This is going to have all our events and activities listed as well as prices and a booking form for any potential hirers. The Village Hall feels that users are finding it hard to access the information that they need on our current website. The village hall will make sure that there is a clear link to the new website so that users can find their way to the information they need through either route.
To consider
– 20260204 Bonfire Night Cllrs has been asked by Galmpton Bonfire Society if Dittisham was interested in having a bonfire night. A suitable venue outside of Galmpton is being sought for a display.  The Society has been made aware that an application to use the Ham would be required, but is interested in the Parish Council’s view on the principle of a Bonfire night held in Dittisham before a formal application is made.  It was RESOLVED to politely decline.
– South Hams Leader urges people to have their say on shake-up to local services and councils in Devon Cllrs noted that the Leader of South Hams District Council is urging everyone in the district to take part in the Government consultation on the reorganisation of local government in Devon, which closes on the March 26 2026. All proposals are published on the following website, where there is also a link to the consultation questionnaire: https://www.devonlgr.co.uk/.
– 20260212 Devon County Council – Public Footpath Diversion Order 2026 – Footpath No.7, Dittisham As required by Schedule 6 of the Highways Act 1980, the Parish Council has been issued with Notice of the making of the above Order, together with a copy of the Order itself. Any representations on the order should be made by the deadline of March 12 2026.  It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the diversion.
– 20260223 The Dittisham Nativity – Brian Patten The Parish Clerk has been asked if any help can be given to source a copy of ‘The Dittisham Nativity’, seemingly unpublished. ACTION: Cllr Neale to follow up with the Clerk.
– 20260226 All Town & Parish Council Briefing: NPPF and its Relationship with Neighbourhood Plans Cllrs were informed that a briefing will be held remotely via MS Teams on Thursday, 12 March from 4:00pm to 5:00pm to address reforms to the national planning system and the impact on how planning applications are determined locally.  Huge increases in housing numbers handed down by government have left a lot of planning authorities vulnerable to speculative development as locally adopted policies are given less weight in decision making.  By intentionally undermining adopted local and neighbourhood plans, government intend to create a ‘boost’ to the supply of housing across the country. Despite South Hams District and West Devon Borough Council’s trying to protect the integrity of Neighbourhood Plan policies for as long as possible, emerging decisions from the Planning Inspectorate and the High Court are clear that certain Neighbourhood Plan policies can no longer be given the weight that either the Local Authority, or local communities would like.  The virtual briefing to Town and Parish Councils to explain how changes to national policy will impact certain local and Neighbourhood Plan policies, and what the options are in the short to medium term.  ACTION: The Clerk to send a link to cllrs interested in attending.
17. Next Meeting: The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday April 1 2026 at 7:00 pm.

Meeting closed at 21:15.

APPROVED Minutes 2026 February 4

Feb 11, 2026 | Minutes

Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 7:00pm

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), N Green, Hawkes, Neale, Pope (late) & Taylor were present, as was C Radford (Clerk). D.Cllr McKay and C.Cllr Rake were present for part of the meeting. 2 members of the public attended.
Apologies: Cllrs J Green & Unitt

Public Forum No matters were raised in a pre-meeting public forum. The meeting was adjourned during specific agenda items.

1. Apologies were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests To declare interests on items on the agenda. Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Neale on item 5.6 payment 2602_6.  Hawkes on item 7.1, being the applicant on the application for tree works in a conservation area (TCA).
3. Approval of Minutes To consider approval of the minutes of the EGM held December 15 2025, the monthly meeting held on January 7 2026 and EGM held on January 20 2026 It was RESOLVED to approve the minutes of the minutes as an accurate record with an amendment; specifically a correction to the location in which the West Dart bus will be parked.
4. Community Reports To receive reports from:
4.1 South Hams District Council Councillor (D.Cllr) The D.Cllr made the following report:
– Local Government Reorganisation A briefing has been held for Parish and Town councils on the proposal put forward by the District Council. A statutory consultation will open in February/March prior to publication of the Government’s decision due in June/July.
– Budget It was reported that the Local Authority has balanced the budget for the current year. South Hams District Council (SHDC) will be badly affected by the impact of the Fair Funding package expecting a significant deficit in the next financial year.
– Council Plan The Local Authority is looking at re prioritising its plan in light of Local Government Reorganisation. It is reallocating funds for projects that would not be delivered before changes in the local government structure.
– Community Transport A report is due and will be circulated to community transport operators shortly.
– Raising the profile of the Climate Emergency The D.Cllr commented on the National Emergency Briefing that recently Took place in Westminster, attended by 1200 delegates at which Chris Packham was keynote speaker. DEFRA has since published a strategic assessment exploring how global biodiversity loss and the collapse of critical ecosystems could affect national security. Neither of these important events the impacts of climate change have been covered well within the news.  The D.Cllr is seeking to do more to raise the profile of the importance of the climate emergency in the local and national consciousness.
4.2 Devon County Council Councillor (C.Cllr) The C.Cllr gave the following update:
– Collapsed road at Torcross Destruction of the road at Torcross has been a significant event. It is outside of Devon County Council’s (DCC’s) budget to afford it, so appeals have been made to the Government to fund it. Ongoing management and risk of repeated occurrences are major issues being considered.
– Budget Whilst the Fair Funding settlement has been difficult for District Councils, it has not been as bad as it could have been for the County Council. There is continuing shift from central government to local tax payers, with an increase to the precept at the maximum 5% year on year to meet considerable pressures of rising costs. One of the big budget concerns is libraries, with a consultation open at the moment. Libraries Unlimited is unsustainable and considering cuts to statutory hours.  This affects the number of hours a qualified librarian is in attendance during library opening times.  Options include looking at more community involvement, and un-staffed access to warm spaces.
– Neighbourhood Planning The C.Cllr recommended that cllrs review notes from January’s meeting of SHDC’s Development Management Committee, where Modbury’s Neighbourhood Plan was overridden following changes in the National Planning Policy Framework, where SHDC can no longer demonstrate a 5-year housing supply, leading to the council approving the development of houses outside the Neighbourhood Plan’s development boundary.
5. Financial Matters
5.1 Quarter 3 Bank Reconciliation Consider independent review of the bank reconciliation. Bank statements and budget summary was checked against the end of quarter bank reconciliation which was signed by Cllr Hawkes.
5.2 Parking Charges To consider increasing parking charges by 4%, inline with local authority increases.. It was RESOLVED to increase standard car parking charges from 1^st April 2026, applying 4% and rounding to the nearest 10.  Standard tariffs will increase as follows:  1 hour = £2.10; 2 hours = £3.10; 3 hours = £4.70; 4 hours = £6.20; All day = £10.00; 1800 to 0900:  Free; Seven-day ticket = £62.00.  The residents discount tariff remains unaffected. ACTION:  The Clerk to request a quote from the machine provider to update the tariffs on both ticket machines.
5.3 Grant Applications To note grant applications received and expected in 2026/27 financial year It was noted that a grant application had been received from St George’s Church, Dittisham, which would appear on the Parish Council’s agenda for consideration once the annual accounts are available, in May 2026. An application is expected from The West Dart Bus for consideration in March.  Dittisham Community shop is expected to make an application.
5.4 Dittisham Sailing Club Permits To consider printing quotations received Quotes from three companies had been sought to produce and deliver 200 vinyl permits. It was RESOLVED to accept the quotation from Lazerpics at a cost of £195.60.
5.5 Receipts and Payments between meetings to note for information
Receipts:
– Machine Receipts from The Ham Car Park banked in Q3 (Oct – Dec) at £575.92 plus £ 18 VAT = £691.10
– Machine Receipts from The Level Car Park banked in Q3 (Oct – Dec) at £373.84. plus £74.76VAT = £448.60
– Natwest bank interest in Q3 (Oct – Dec) = £353.85 no VAT
– Lloyds bank interest in Q3 (Oct – Dec) = £13.48 no VAT
– Invoice 24 to South Hams District Council SHDC Car Park Receipts Q2 for the Ham and The Level at £17656.78 plus £3531.36 VAT = £21188.14
– Invoice 25 to Parish of Dittisham Charity for matched funding with respect to original quote for Jubilee Steps Hand rail = £2635.50 (no VAT)
Payments made between meetings The following payments were noted:
– Payment 2601_9 Lloyds Bank Fee = £4.25
5.6 February Payments It was RESOLVED to approve the following payments:
– Payment 2602_1 to HMRC for Quarter 3 VAT Payment = £2550.88
– Payment 2602_2 Nest Pensions for Pension contributions on Clerk’s Jan Salary = £39.61 no VAT
– Payment 2602_3 to CRadford January Clerk Salary (month 10) = £877.61 no VAT
– Payment 2602_4 to HMRC for Tax and NI on Clerk’s January Salary = £286.16no VAT
– Payment 2602_5 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Jan) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2602_6 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Jan at 12EUR per month (£10.46) and Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Jan at £4.08 plus 82p VAT per month = £15.36
– Payment 2602_7 to DALC for Inv 7114 Attendance of Mike Taylor at the Being a Good Councillor 1 course at £15 plus £3 VAT = £18
6. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions The following was noted:
6.1 3321/25/HHO Downton Barton Dittisham Householder application for new garden studio APPROVED
7. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
– 0049/26/TCA 2 Watermans Cottage Manor Street Dittisham: Ash – remove, die back present. T3: Maple – reduce by 1/3 all over, to reduce risk of branch failure. It was noted that the Local Authority had already decided to raise no objections to works.
– 0071/26/TCA Laburnum Cottage Manor Street Dittisham: T80: Oak – remove dead wood. A,B,D,E,T88,T87: Ash – remove deadwood and Ivy. T83: Acer – remove Ivy. G84: x3 Sycamore – remove Ivy. T81,T82,T86,T85,C: Ash – fell, due to Dieback.
It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
Noting the shorter consultation time limit on Treeworks in a Conservation Applications (TCA), it was RESOLVED that the Clerk forward TCA notices to cllrs if it is likely that applications will time out before the next meeting of the Parish Council, and to request an extension if controversial.
8. Blackberry Cottage Surface Water Drainage To consider the owner’s request to obtain the Parish Council’s permission in writing to cross third-party land and connect the surface water drainage to the watercourse for the life of the development. The applicant attended the meeting to answer questions about the proposed scheme. Cllrs discussed the impact of any physical infrastructure needed and that if permission were given, an easement may be required.  It was RESOLVED to move forward with the following actions:
– For the applicant’s drainage consultants to attend a site meeting with representatives of the Parish Council to better understand the proposed scheme and any potential impact on third party land.
– To consult with a lawyer to receive a quotation for the cost of an easement, if required.
– Receive advice from a professional to consider the value of such an easement, if required.
9. Dittisham Regatta Sports Day To consider an application for hire of The Ham The Clerk had undertaken a review of the draft application against the Parish Council’s ‘Use of the Ham’ policy and hire terms and conditions. It was agreed ACTION: the Clerk provide support and feedback to the applicant asking for further detail in the risk assessment, particularly in relation to the movement of vehicles on site, a more detailed map and more information about insurance and licensing arrangements.
10. Gritting on roads to Dittisham
10.1 Lack of gritting consider concerns raised by cllrs and members of the public. Cllrs had received correspondence from residents asking that the Parish Council try again to get gritting of the road from Sportsmans Arms/Hembrough Post to Dittisham reinstated. It was commented that residents need to able to get in and out of the village at all times and concerned that neither a fire engine nor an ambulance could attend if there was an emergency in the village. Cllrs noted reports of several accidents and instances where vehicles skidded off the road, about residents who were unable to be seen by regular carers or receive emergency medical care as the state of the road prevented medical staff attending.  It was expected that the route does not meet the criteria to be included on the gritting map, however the Parish Council will continue to make representations to the County Council for inclusion in the gritting network.
10.2 Potential shared gritting arrangements to receive an update on a meeting held with neighbouring parishes on potential shared gritting It was reported that Cllrs Bond and N.Green had attended a meeting with representatives of Ashprington & Cornworthy, Blackawton and Harberton Parish Councils to discuss considering pursuing the development of a shared Snow Warden scheme in which Parish Councils work together to improve highway safety and allow key routes in all five parishes to be gritted efficiently and in line with the broader Snow Warden policy.  Under the outline proposal, a paid contractor would take the role of lead Snow Warden. They would purchase a tractor-mounted spreader and have space available for primary storage of salt/grit. The contractor would undertake to spread salt at appropriate times on a route that would take in key access routes to the villages and major hamlets of the participating parishes.  Before bringing the proposal forward, DCC has been asked to comment on whether it would be in support of the project as outlined, to confirm what qualifications any contractor and operatives would be required to have, and insurance arrangements.  There would be a considerable cost of the grit, if not covered through the snow warden scheme.  More information is required on the technical matter of how much, and what type, of grit would be required under different conditions.
11. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
11.1 Neighbourhood Plan To receive an update Consultation is now closed with 168 replies received. Responses will now be analysed to draw out the key issues and consider next steps.
11.2 West Dart Bus To receive an update on bus parking options Riverside Road will be used for the meantime. Once the bus has arrived next week, a description and registration will be provided to SHDC so that it can be parked in The Level Car park without charge.
11.3 Maintenance Working Group To receive an update from January meeting. It was reported that a briefing document had been compiled from which to obtain quotes for a variety of maintenance jobs, including repairs to the Ham wall, minor bench and bus shelter guttering repairs, repairs to the wall in the culvert near the sailing club and replacing three posts at the Ham car park.  Contractors are being sought.  In March working group will undertake minor tree works at The Ham Triangle, (crown lifts and cutting back/pruning). It was agreed to request advice on management of trees at North Bank as part of the net annual tree survey (due summer/autumn 2026).
12. Annual Away Day Consider focus for the Parish Councillors annual ‘Away Day’ It was agreed that the away day would have a loose agenda, enabling cllrs free discussion around any range of topics relating to the parish. ACTION: Cllrs prepare to come to the away day with a short introduction to themselves, and the roles they have/wish to have on the Parish Council.
13. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use Deferred to the spring.
14. Potential new car park and burial ground To receive a briefing note on proposals, and proposed Parish Council role Cllrs had received a briefing note in advance of the meeting, which laid out a proposed way forward to achieve the objective of bringing forward a new 40 space car park and burial ground. It is proposed that an options agreement will name Dittisham Parish Council as the party who have five years to exercise the option, and two local project managers, responsible for all aspects of the project, include planning, construction and funding, specifying that they will do this in conjunction with the Parish Council; seeking council approval on all material decisions.   It is proposed that the car park be a paying car park on the model of the two existing car parks in Dittisham, with the Parish Council collecting revenue and becoming responsible for maintenance.
It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council is willing to be party to the Option Agreement with the landowner.
It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council is willing to cover the cover any legal costs in drawing up the Agreement up to £2,000.  If costs are in excess of this, to return to the Parish Council for consideration.
It was agreed that once the option agreement in place, a special meeting be arranged with the project managers, landowner and agent.
15. Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider
To note:
– Happy New Year and updates from the River Cllrs were informed that the Friends of the Dart newsletter includes a link to a ‘behind the scenes’ video from the Friends of the Dart lab, hosted at Dartington Hall Estate, where weekly E.Coli testing takes place. A meeting was held on Jan 15 to share news about most recent water quality results. December results can be found by following this link.  (HTML). Stoke Gabriel bathing water rating has been downgraded.  It is recognised that businesses who rely on contact with the river will be affected and encouraged to get in touch.  A weekend festival ‘We Are the Water’ coinciding with the weekend of world water day will take place March 20 – 22.
– Beach Clean – Dittisham Foreshore – March 29^thCllrs were informed that the beach clean will take place on March 29, meeting at The Ham car park at 9am before walking to Dittisham Mill Creek and collecting rubbish and plastic on the way. Bags to collect refuse have been requested from the District Council, with the bins at the Ham Car Park or top of the lane to the Crek on Lower Street as being suggested as a rubbish collection point.
To consider
– Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Community Risk Management Plan engagement survey Cllrs are informed that the Fire and Rescue Service is beginning to develop a new 5 year plan and keen to collect as many views as possible through its online survey. All recipients of the email are asked to display a poster and encourage participation. ACTION: The Clerk/Cllr Bond to distribute the notice and link via the Parish Council’s mailing list, on the website and on social media.
– Parish Paths Partnership (P3) – Update and Forms for the New Financial Year Cllrs were informed that a reduced P3 team at Devon County Council has been working to updated and streamline the scheme so that it becomes a more efficient and effective service. The email received lays out all the changes to the scheme in detail, including a new contact address, a new reporting process, an updated grant form, a new Improvement Bid form, Seasonal Cut form and Materials Form.  New guidance and criteria information is provided across a number of attachments.  Cllrs Neale and Bond will meet to discuss this and report back on the impact for the parish at an upcoming meeting.
– The Level speeding traffic Members of the public (MoP) had attended the meeting to draw attention to the letter written to the Parish Council commenting that the speeding along the Level in Dittisham is a matter of urgency that must be addressed. It was commented that vehicles build up speed on the straight road between the Red Lion and the car park. Very few vehicles travel at the 20mph advisory speed limits. Residents take their life in their own hands in areas without footways. A vehicle recently sped past someone who had fallen on ice, nearly running them over.  Despite residents regularly flagging down traffic, it makes no difference.  The MoP’s proposed solution is to look into installation of speed bumps to slow down traffic, or atleast start with a few 20mph signs in the village.  This would be a preferred approach to a digital radar sign.    There was a discussion in which cllrs considered whether a 20mph was desirable, and where it would be applied.  It was proposed that public comment on the matter could be collated through the Neighbourhood Plan process.  It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council would support 20mph in Dittisham Village, the Parish Council should take steps to support the 20’s plenty campaign, and move forward with identifying areas to post ‘20’s Plenty’ signs.
– Re_Draft minutes of the January meetings of Dittisham Parish Council [Response re ownership of land] Following circulation of the draft minutes of the January meeting, a resident comments that the DHNA’s statement that the triangle is part of the fundus leased from the Duchy cannot be correct since the area in question is above the Mean High Water (MHW) and therefore owned by the riparian owners who, according to the Land Registry plan held by Councillor Unitt are DPC and Soundings. The fact that DHNA pay rental to Dittisham Sailing Club for the land used by the ground chain of the Dittisham running moorings confirms that DHNA acknowledge this boundary to ownership and respect it. The gravel triangle is exactly the same. Having said that, no one that I have spoken to objects to DHNA organising a clean-up operation as long as the long-term occupiers, some of whom have satisfied all the requirements of adverse possession ie long term, continuous, open, undisguised use of an area without reference to the owner, are respected. The resident has suggested a future system of management similar to the Ham carpark; with possibly Dittisham Sailing Club control with annually designated allocation of dinghy spaces, free to residents, however they found useful. The Harbourmaster knows these views and the legal department at the RYA has confirmed the resident’s understanding of the fundus boundary. It was RESOLVED to bring this back as an agenda item for a future meeting.
– Request for local insight on mobile phone coverage in Devon Parishes Cllrs are informed that Parish Councils across Devon are being asked by South West wifi business working on rural connectivity projects across Wales and the South West to help build a clearer, ground-level picture of mobile phone coverage in rural areas via an online form (html). This is not a sales message and there is no obligation or commitment at any stage.  Individual cllrs would follow this up.
– Storm Chandra Flooding 26th – 27th January Devon County Council’s Flood and Coastal Risk Management Team have asked for information about any areas affected by flooding due to Storm Chandra. The Council is asked for any information about the date/time and location that flooding occurred; If any properties were flooded internally (and the addresses of these properties, if known); Any key roads which were affected Photographs (if possible); Any other information deemed relevant.  Cllrs were not aware of any areas of Dittisham Parish affected by flooding.
16. Next Meeting: The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday March 4 2026 at 7:00 pm.

Meeting closed at 21:44.

APPROVED EGM Minutes 2026 January 20

Jan 22, 2026 | Minutes

Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council
8:00pm Tuesday 20 January 2026 Dittisham Village Hall

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), J Green, Hawkes, Neale, Taylor & Unitt
Apologies: Cllr Golding, Pope
Clerk: Ms Radford
Public: None

Public Forum No public were present.

1. Apologies were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests No interests were declared on items on the agenda.
3. 2026/27 Budget and Precept demand
3.1 Draft Budget To consider a draft 2026/27 Budget as prepared by the Finance Working Group. The Chair of the Finance Working Group provided a summary explanation of the budget, during which cllrs could ask questions.
Detail was given on how the playground equipment and car park machine replacement cost had been calculated, taking into account expected lifetime of equipment and expected increases in costs, based on rates of inflation.
There was a discussion on whether the budget had predicted sufficient funds for unexpected costs.
It was agreed to include an explanation of the Parish Council’s budget and earmarked reserves at the Annual Parish Meeting.
It was RESOLVED to approve the 2026/27 budget as presented:

3.2 Capton Defibrillator To consider proceeding with the Capton Defibrillator project. There was a discussion during which councillors considered responses from Capton residents taking into account key statistics on community defibrillator use in the UK from the British Heart Foundation, noting that studies highlight that PADS are utilized in just 10% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, even when one is available within 500m. Comments had been made that early CPR is the most and important step.  After discussion it was RESOLVED to progress the Capton Defibrillator project, with the following comments:
– An application is made to the Dittisham Charity for a grant.
– Capton residents are asked for a contribution to the cost, as contributions from Capton residents (providing evidence that residents contributed funding to defibrillators in Dittisham Village).
– A First Aid Training course is organised, as per the agreement of the Parish Council in October 2025, and to ensure that the course include use of defibrillators, giving priority to Capton residents before advertising it in the Parish.
3.3 Grant application from Dittisham Village Hall consider recommendation of the Finance Working Group on awarding a grant. It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council award a grant of £4000 to the Village Hall in the 2026/27 financial year.
It was queried whether there were grants available for installation of renewable energy at village halls.  Cllr Taylor offered to undertake some research if it would be helpful.
3.4 2026/27 Precept Demand It was RESOLVED the 2026/27 precept be set at £21,100.  This would make the Parish Band D rate £46.12 per year, which is an decrease of £0.01 on the previous year (equivalent to -0.03 %)
4. Annual Away Day
4.1 Away Day Date It was RESOLVED that the away day would take place on March 12 2026. The focus of the away day
4.2 Away Day Costs It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council budget £200 for the cost of the away day.

Meeting closed at 21:00

APPROVED Minutes 2026 January 7

Jan 22, 2026 | Minutes

Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 7 January 2026 at 7:00pm

Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), Hawkes, Neale, Pope, Taylor & Unitt were present, as was C Radford (Clerk). No members of the public were present. The County and District Councillors had both given apologies.
Apologies: Cllrs J Green, N Green.

Public Forum No members of the public were present.

1. Apologies were received as above.
2. Declaration of Interests Cllrs declared an interest in the following items: Cllr Neale on item 7.4 payment 2601_5.  Cllr Neale would not propose or vote on any resolution.  Cllr Pope on item 15 as the originator of the correspondence ‘Trees on Ham Lane’.  Cllr Pope would leave the meeting while this matter was considered.
3. Councillor Co-option Cllr Taylor signed an acceptance of office form before the Clerk. It was noted that the Declaration of Interests form had been completed.
4. Approval of Minutes It was RESOLVED to approve of the minutes of the minutes of the monthly meeting held on December 3 2025 without amendments
5. Community Reports To receive reports from:
5.1 South Hams District Council Councillor No report.
5.2 Devon County Council Councillor The Clerk had forwarded the C.Cllr’s January report to cllrs for information.
6. Financial Matters
6.1 Finance Working Group To receive an update from the meeting of the Finance Working Group held December 9. It was reported that the working group had been through the end of year forecast line by line ahead of drafting a budget for the 2026/27 financial year. A further short meeting will be held to finalise the draft before recommending the budget and precept demand to the full council.
6.2 To consider matters proposed by the Finance Working Group
6.2.1 2026/27 Budget and Precept demand Agree EGM date to set the 2026/27 Budget and Precept demand. It was agreed to hold a meeting on January 20 2026.  7pm  Finance Working Group and 8pm Full Council.
6.2.3 Capton Defibrillator To consider proceeding with the Capton Defibrillator project. It was RESOLVED to defer discussion to the next meeting and encourage further views from Capton residents.
6.2.3 Grant application from Dittisham Village Hall consider recommendation of the Finance Working Group on awarding a grant. Defer discussion to the EGM on January 20, when the budget will be reviewed and approved.
6.3 Receipts and Payments between meetings
– Payment 2512_14 to ICO for annual fee= £47 no VAT
– Payment 2512_14 to Lloyds Bank for bank fees = £4.25 no VAT
6.4 January Payments It was RESOLVED to approve the following payments:
– Payment 2601_1 to CRadford December Clerk Salary = £877.61 no VAT
– Payment 2601_2 to HMRC for Tax and NI = £285.96 no VAT
– Payment 2601_4 Pension contributions on Clerk’s Dec Salary = £39.61 no VAT
– Payment 2601_5 to RNeale for reimbursement: JottaCloud backup services Monthly renewal Dec at 12EUR per month (£10.48).  Lebara mobile phone monthly renewal Dec at £4.90 per month plus reimbursement for gaffa tape Total £21.51 plus 82p VAT = £22.33
– Payment 2601_6 to MHurrell for monthly car park checks and banking takings (Dec) = £150 no VAT
– Payment 2601_7 to Pittman Trees for invoice 1572 for tree works at the Ham at £200 plus £40 VAT = £240
– Payment 2601_8 to ARCCAS Inv 218 Grounds maintenance services carried out during December (Steps) at £30 plus £6 VAT = £36
7. South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions The following decisions were noted:
7.1 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 APPROVED
7.2 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 APPROVED
7.3 3418/25/HHO Sunday School The Level Dittisham Rear extension to provide first floor shower room and WC APPROVED
8. New Planning Applications to consider a recommendation to the planning authority on the following applications:
8.1 3321/25/HHO Downton Barton Dittisham Householder application for new garden studio It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
8.2 3609/25/HHO Blackberry Cottage, The Lane Dittisham Householder Application for Alterations and extensions to property with associated landscaping work. New entrance door on the south-west elevation to provide an improved main access to the property. Two storey extension to replace an existing single storey lean-to extension. Small conservatory on the rear (north-east) elevation. New parking space accessed from The Lane. It was RESOLVED that the Parish Council neither supports nor objects to the application as insufficient detail has been provided on which to be able to make a recommendation.
– The Parish Council would seek more detail on car parking and a construction management plan due to concern about damage to, and obstruction of the lane.
– The drawings on ‘the proposed ground floor and first floor plan’ do not match drawings on the ‘proposed first floor and landscape plan’.
– There is insufficient information provided on the drainage plan.
8.3 3607/25/FUL Red Lion Inn, The Level Dittisham Construction of ground floor bay window, proposed front porch canopy, rear first floor extension, installation of 3.no Juliet balconies, and roof light It was RESOLVED to SUPPORT the application.
9. Planning Applications for information only
9.1 3733/25/PDM Land at Sx 848 537 (Little Coombe Barn) Dittisham Application to determine if prior approval is required for a proposed change of use of agricultural building to 1No dwellinghouse (Class C3) & for associated development (Class Q (a+b)).
10. Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
10.1 Neighbourhood Plan It was reported that 100+ returns have been made in response to the Neighbourhood Plan questionnaire to date. Three more people have come forward to join the steering group following the consultation. A coffee morning will be held towards the end of January to encourage further responses.  Responses will be analysed, following which a public meeting will be held to share the findings, likely in March.
10.2 West Dart Bus To receive an update on bus parking options A 16 seater bus has been purchased, and will need to be parked somewhere from mid-January. It was agreed to pursue options to park on Riverside Road, or on an area close to the end of the Level car park. It was agreed to inform the District Council that the Parish Council has given permission for the bus to be parked at the Level Car Park without payment.  To avoid any loss of Parish Council revenue the West Dart Bus would be removed at busy times (Easter, summer months and Christmas, for example).
11. Annual Away Day Consider date and arrangements for the Parish Councillors annual ‘Away Day’. It was proposed to hold the event between 10am – 1pm in mid-March. ACTION: Cllr Neale will set up and circulate a poll to enable a date to be selected, prior to booking a venue.
12. The Level Phone Box Consider response to ideas for ongoing use. No update. There will be no maintenance actions until weather improves.
13. Free Parish Boat Park Receive update on management of the area at the end of Dittisham Sailing Club Boat Park. Cllrs had been informed that, following investigation, Dart Harbour Authority has established that the triangle of foreshore south of the sailing club dinghy park is part of Dart Harbour’s leased fundus. The Harbour Authority has started work to organise the area, currently occupied by a mix of abandoned, wrecked and used dinghies, beginning by establishing ownership of each boat. A letter has been attached to boats to encourage owners to get in touch with the Harbour Authority.  The Harbour Authority is open to options for managing the site and would welcome the Parish Councils views. Noting that the Harbour Authority has a range of powers allowing it to remove abandoned boats, it was RESOLVED that the Parish Council considers its involvement in the matter as closed.
14. Potential new car park To receive an update on options under discussion in the community. Trial pits have been dug, and land is suitable for both a car park and a graveyard. Meetings will take place between the landowner and local community representatives to progress feasibility of the options and any agreements required.
15 Correspondence and Contacts to note or consider
To note:
– #52 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that the e-bulletin includes an update from the DALC Chair on Local Government Reorganisation proposals, now submitted to the Secretary of State. DALC has sent its position statement to all Principal Authorities and invited discussion with DALC on how the sector could help inform their thinking as they developed their ideas for governance at the most local level. DALC confirmed that the organisation would not endorse any one proposal unless it was clearly the view of a majority of its members. This seems an unlikely outcome as DALC members are affected differently by these very different proposals. DALC will evaluate whichever proposal/s the minister chooses for public consultation against its position statement.
– #54 2025 DALC E-bulletin Cllrs were informed that this bulletin includes details of a new training course for 2026: An Introduction to Neighbourhood Planning & Design Codes on 6:30 – 7:45pm 18/02/26 on Zoom.  The Course includes an overview of the Neighbourhood Planning process, bringing a plan into force, design codes, resources (including grant funding), other options to Neighbourhood Planning and what reforms to the planning system may mean for Neighbourhood Plans. Information was forwarded Cllr Pope.
– The credit interest rates on your business account are coming down on 20 January 2026 Cllrs were informed that new interest rates for the Lloyds Commercial Account will decrease by 0.10%.
– Message from the SDNL Partnership Chair Cllrs were informed of correspondence thanking all contributors to the draft South Devon National Landscape Management Plan. The team is developing a consultation draft of the new plan drawing together the considerable evidence gathered and new policies are taking shape. The Plan is taking longer to draft, due to its ambition and to take into account accordance with newly released documentation including Environmental Improvement Plan 2025 and National Planning Policy Framework both released in December 2025.   A programme to engage local schools is also in planning, due to there being limited input from young people.  The Parish Council will be asked to respond to consultation on a refined draft within the first six months of 2026. The existing Management Plan will remain in force and be material to any planning decisions until the new Plan is adopted by Local Authorities.
– Temporary Traffic Notice – RIVERSIDE ROAD, Dittisham (TTRO2667336) Cllrs were informed of a road closure in place from 4– 5 February 2026 between the hours of 9:30am – 3:30pm to enable gully sucking and cabling work. No alternative route will be in place, but access will be maintained for residents.
To consider
– Trees on Ham Lane Cllrs are asked to consider topping a clump of trees to stop them getting any taller. The trees are thought to be mainly hazel with some dead elm. It is suggested to top at/to 2 meters. Cllr Pope left the meeting. It was noted that enquiries had been made as to whether any of the trees are subject to a Tree Protection Order (TPO).  There was a discussion in which it was agreed that the Parish Council should consider adopting a tree policy, using the South Hams Tree policy as a model, and be part of a broader strategy of management and maintenance of trees in the parish. The Parish Council would not consider topping the trees until further consideration of policy on such requests was given. Cllr Pope returned to the meeting.
– 2026 Devon BOOKING REQUEST – Dittisham, Devon Cllrs are informed that the cost of the annual play inspection from RoSPA Play Safety will increase in the coming year. The cost in March/April 2026 will be £83.00 plus VAT per area for up to five play items. Any over five is an additional £4.00 plus VAT per item. If the number of play items to be inspected will not be changing in 2026, the cost will be £83.00 plus VAT. If the Parish Council would like to confirm an inspection for April 2026, an order should be made before the end of February. It was RESOLVED to book the inspection.
16. Next Meeting: To confirm the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Wednesday February 4 2026 at 7:00 pm.

Meeting closed: at 21:05

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