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.

Draft Minutes 2025 April 30 Personnel Committee

May 3, 2025 | Minutes

Draft Minutes Personnel Committee 2025 April 30

Notes sub committee meetings April 2025