Mar 19, 2025 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 5 March 2025 at 7:00p.m.
a. Public Forum
i) Longlands Workshops in Cornworthy
Carpenter Oak has moved and its former premises in Cornworthy are being redeveloped as a place of work for craftsmen and makers of all kinds. They are currently looking for new tenants.
ii) Parish Lengthsman
The Lengthsman described their work in Dittisham and some obstacles to making progress. The meeting noted the benefit to the Parish of the work.
Present: Parish Cllrs Bond (Chair), Golding, Green, Hawkes, Neale, and Nightingale were present, as were Devon County Cllr Hawkins, South Hams District Cllr McKay, and A Thom, Clerk. There were two members of the public present for the Open Forum.
Absent: Cllrs Pope and Unitt.
Resignation of the Chair
Cllr Nightingale opened the meeting and discussed his resignation from the role of Chair, which had been received in writing before the meeting. It was resolved to elect Cllr Bond as Chair.
Cllr Bond signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.
The meeting decided to defer the election of Vice Chair until all Cllrs were present.
Apologies:
Apologies for absence received from Cllrs Pope and Unitt were noted.
Declaration of Interests
None declared.
Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the Meetings held on 15 January, 29 January 2025, and 5 February 2025 with the 5 February 2025 Minutes amended to include the cost of £215(exVAT) for the approved treeworks in Capton.
Community Reports
South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC Cllr McKay discussed the devolution proposal that SHDC has submitted to the Secretary of State: the 1-4-5 proposal to create three unitaries in Devon. He said that Exeter wants to become a unitary itself and it doesn’t support the 1-4-5 proposal. Cllr McKay said that Town and Parish Councils are hardly mentioned in the Devolution White Paper. They may get more responsibilities.
Cllr McKay said that he has been very involved with food hub distribution and aggregation to shorten supply chains. He is talking to community bus services about how to integrate more and would like to create an overarching strategy for the District. The CVS has been asked to carry out a survey about community transport. It was noted that DPC hasn’t yet received the survey. Cllr McKay said that this is important. This work is part of Cllr McKay’s overarching theme of transportation and delivery. There are restrictions on how SHDC can use the information that it already holds. DPC can expect to receive an email about local food production. It might be possible to based this project at Baltic Wharf.
Cllr McKay is waiting for the SHDC Assets Team’s response about correcting its incorrect record of ownership trees in The Level Car Park.
In preparing for devolution SHDC is considering the use of the reserves that it holds. The reserves have been sourced locally and SHDC wants to keep their use local, for local capital investment eg playparks. Cllr McKay said that the Jubilee Steps handrail might be a suitable project. The Clerk was asked to submit a request for funds within the next one to two months.
A study is being done to look at the installation of photovoltaic panels on the Dartmouth car park to feed the Wellbeing Hub.
Devon County Council Councillor
DCC Cllr Hawkins thanked Cllr Nightingale for his support over the past few years and congratulated him on his work as the Chair.
Cllr Hawkins confirmed that the CVS transport survey also hasn’t contacted Dartmouth Cllrs. SHDC and DCC have set their next budget. Adult Social Care, Community Services, and Highways have had bigger than inflation increases. There is much to be discussed regarding devolution but it is ‘above our payscale’. DCC doesn’t yet have a proposed way forward. DCC has committed to having the required work done to Warfleet Road and will be charging the landowner for the work. The Dartmouth Foodbank usage has increased, there are 40-50 users per week and it has been up over 12 18 months. The Dartmouth Youth Club hopes to have the RNLI hut on Coronation Park.
Cllr McKay left the meeting.
Review of Meeting Action Items
The list of meeting action items was briefly noted.
Financial Matters
Financial Reports
The Financial Reports, which showed a total balance of £83,347.13 and an unearmarked general fund £28,351.20 at 28 February 2025 were noted.
It was resolved to approve the proposed revised schedule for providing Financial Reports with a corresponding January date added to the schedule.
Payments
It was resolved to authorise the following payments:
RingGo Car Parks Service fees for 1st October 2024 to 31st December 2024 £104.58
Annual Website Hosting Fee £140.00
DALC Being a Good Councillor 2 £18.00
DALC Being a Good Councillor 3 £18.00
Clerk Expenses Reimbursement February £124.09
The following payments authorised and paid since the last monthly meeting were noted:
DPC Bank Mandates
It was resolved to confirm the changes proposed in the Report.
Replacement for the use of the Clerk’s Personal Credit Card
It was resolved to approve opening a Zempler Bank account to obtain a Mastercard as described in the Report.
Purchase of a Mobile Phone for the Clerk Role
It was resolved to approve the recommendations in the Report to authorise the Clerk to spend up to £200 on a mobile phone for the Clerk role and to purchase a SIM only mobile phone number for Dittisham Parish Council at a cost of up to £5/month amended to also accept the offer of surplus phone and to see first if that phone will meet the need, and to cease offering the landline number for the Clerk three months after a mobile phone is successfully set up.
Extra Emptying of Bins on The Ham
It was resolved to approve again requesting of SHDC extra emptying of the three general waste bins on The Ham during the tourist season from Wednesday 09 July to Wednesday 29 October 2025, 17 visits, at a cost of £255.
- South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
4015/24/TCA Dittisham Court Dittisham TQ6 0HS. T 3210: Copper Beech – Crown raise to give clearance of 4m to protect tree from passing traffic. T 3212 : 2 x Tulip trees – Crown raise to 1.75m to improve access for mowing. G2 – Beech hedge – remove approximately 7 stems protruding into orchard to improve usability of space. T1 – Magnolia – Reduce crown by approximately 1-1.5 metres & to suitable pruning points to improve crown symmetry & reduce risk of failure. Raise No Objections.
4084/24/TCA The Ham Ham Lane Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0HS. T1: Willow (Salix Alba) – re- pollard, cutting back to previous growth points. T2: Ash (Fraxinus Excelsior) – use the willow wood chippings to spread around base of this ash tree. The above numbers refer to the sketch plan. These two trees are T19 and T27 on the Tree Survey Plan. Raise No Objections.
4093/24/ARC Land Adjacent Fairholme Riverside Road Dittisham. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 6 (Arboricultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan) & 9 (CEMP) to planning consent 1476/24/FUL. Discharge of Condition Refused
- New Planning Applications
0445/25/ARC Shearwater, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 3 (Windows/Doors) of planning consent 3571/24/HHO.
Renewal application Pavement Licence The Broadstone Cafe, 16 Broadstone , Dartmouth TQ6 9NR.
New Premises Licence application 1 Foss Street, Dartmouth, TQ6 9DW.
Variation of Premises Licence SHPL0099 Dudleys, 33 Lower Street, Dartmouth, TQ6 9AN.
DPC is not commenting on the above applications.
- New Tree Applications
0379/25/TCA Barton Cottage The Lane Dittisham TQ6 0HB. T1: Silver Birch – Fell & Remove tree, the tree is dead/ nearly dead due to a bad attack from Honey Fungus.
0397/25/TCA Barton Cottage The Lane Dittisham TQ6 0HB. T1 & T2: Fir trees – Crown height reduction by 6 metres – due to the trees growing very large & disproportionate to the garden & surrounds & are significantly restricting light.
The above two applications closed for comments before the monthly meeting.
It was noted that the applications were considered and the decision made to request a site-visit by the SHDC Tree Officer.
Co-option of a Parish Councillor
The Clerk said they would advertise that the current invitation for applications for the vacancy for a Parish Councillor will close on Thursday 20 March 2025. An extra meeting of the Parish Council was scheduled for Wednesday 26 March at 6:00 pm if required to interview applicants.
Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
Village Hall Management Committee
The Reports from DPC to the VHMC and from the VHMC to DPC were noted.
Personnel Committee and Subcommittee
It was resolved to approve a revision to the Terms of Reference with the Subcommittee meeting location changed from the proposal such that the location must be in the Dittisham Village Hall if the Clerk is present and can be the private home of a Subcommittee member by agreement if the Clerk is not present.
It was resolved to appoint the Cllr Neale to be the Chair of the Personnel Committee.
Requirement for a Temporary Second Clerk
It was resolved to approve the recommendations in the Report regarding Cllr Neale ceasing to act as the Temporary Clerk and resetting the passwords, and that DPC will retain the appointments to the roles of Temporary Clerk and Temporary RFO repurposed and renamed as Reserve Clerk and Reserve RFO, in order to improve the Council’s resilience and business continuity arrangements.
Annual Parish Meeting Arrangements
The arrangements for speakers and refreshments were confirmed. It was resolved to approve a refreshment budget of up to £50. There will be one guest speaker – to discuss Neighbourhood Plans.
Councillor Training Feedback
Cllr Hawkes said that the webinar he has attended on Parish Council Powers and Duties was good. He has shared the materials by email. It was noted that DPC Policy is that in general Councillors participating on DPC working groups or nominated to represent DPC in external forums are expected to complete the ‘Being a Good Councillor’ training within six months of election or co-option.
Jubilee Steps Handrail Project
It was noted that the Parish of Dittisham Charity’s has agreed to part fund the Jubilee Steps railing project.
As discussed above the Clerk will apply to SHDC for funds for the project.
Correspondence and Contacts
The following was noted or considered (discussion added in italics):
14/2/25 Residents informed about South West Water (SWW) surveys in the village
15/2/25 Enquiry from a resident about SWW tanker on the Level for extended periods of time. The SWW contact for the survey was asked about it. No reply received to date.
Cllr Bond said that his understanding is that the tankers were standing by to put water into the system. This was because of works elsewhere that may have affected the supply. That isn’t an official response from SWW.
18/2/25 Response from DCC that no assets owned by DCC were located in Dittisham.
24/2/25 Response from SHDC that its records show it owns the trees in The Level Car Park. This error will be raised by Cllr McKay with the Assets Team.
As discussed earlier in the meeting SHDC Cllr McKay will confirm if there are other assets.
DCC Cllr Hawkins was asked to liaise with DCC on Dittisham’s behalf regarding this matter.
Next Meeting
It was confirmed that the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 2 April 2025 at 7:00 pm.
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 because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
Car Park Machine Attendant Contract
Cllr Green declared an interest and left the meeting.
It was resolved employ a new Car Park Machine Attendant contractor at an annual cost of £1,800.
The meeting closed at 9:40.
Feb 26, 2025 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the extraordinary Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 29 January 2025 at 7:15 p.m.
Public Forum
a) Grant requested from the Parish Council in 2025/26 by St George’s Church
A representative of St George’s Church outlined the contribution of the church as a resource for all parishioners and its central place in the village, and the churches preference to meet annual expenses from annual income and to use the Dittisham Church Lands Trust for extraordinary maintenance. They restated the request for the Parish Council to meet the full cost of the Church’s grounds maintenance.
The meeting started at 19:28.
Present: Parish Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Hawkes, Neale, and Unitt were present, as were A Thom, Clerk, and one member of the public during a public forum discussion before the meeting commenced.
Absent: Cllr Pope.
Apologies:
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Pope.
Declaration of Interests
None declared.
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 because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
Ground Maintenance Contract
It was resolved to confirm the updated specifications document, to accept the quote of £4,000 from a new contractor to carry out the scheduled works in the contract in 2025 with an optional two year extension (i.e. to the end of the contract period advertised in 2023), and to trial the addition of maintenance of the steps to the private accesses on the north side of The Ham in 2025 at a cost of £300.
Re-open the meeting
The meeting was re-opened to the public and press.
Grants requested from the Parish Council in 2025/26 from the Village Hall Management Committee
and from St George’s Church
The VHMC has requested a grant of £5,000. St George’s Church has requested a grant of £2,500. These were on the Agenda as separate items and considered by the meeting as one item.
Regarding the grant to St George’s Church, it was resolved to budget a potential grant of £1,250 and to request further information: the return of the 24/25 grant evaluation form, further details about the operation of Dittisham Church Lands Trust, in particular what purpose the funds can be used for. It was noted that the DPC Grant policy specifies that financial assistance will be given on the basis of need and that DPC will not fund political or religious beliefs.
It was resolved to make a grant of £4,000 to the Village Hall Management Committee in 2025/26 and to offer DPC’s support to the VHMC to obtain grants from other sources.
2025/26 Budget and Precept Demand
It was resolved that the 2025/26 Budget will include a grant of £4,000 to the Village Hall Management Committee for maintenance, allow for a grant of £1,250 to St George’s Church for grounds maintenance, make a total transfer of £4,374 to the Parish Health and Safety Reserve to increase funds available to install a handrail on Jubilee Steps, and a Precept tax demand of £19,556, and that other elements of the budget are approved as per the draft Budget circulated.
Feb 26, 2025 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in Dittisham Village Hall
on Wednesday 15 January 2025 at 7:00p.m.
a. Public Forum
No issues raised by members of the public.
Present: Parish Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Hawkes, Neale, Pope, and Unitt were present, as were Devon County Cllr Hawkins, South Hams District Cllr McKay, and A Thom, Clerk. There were no members of the public present.
Absent: Cllrs Green and Lloyd.
Apologies:
Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Green.
Declaration of Interests
None declared.
Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 4 December 2025 with a description of the car park tarrif resolutions agreed at the November meeting of DPC removed.
Community Reports
South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC Cllr McKay discussed the Government’s devolution project. Cllr McKay said that devolution is almost a certainty and that the District Council’s days are numbered. The timescale for the change is uncertain. The most likely timescale is that the May elections in 2027 would be threshold unitary authority elections.
SHDC’s settlement from Government has been reduced. There is a budget gap this year of about £1 million therefore a big need to increase income as SHDC wants to deliver on its manifesto and it must balance the budget. The increase car parking fees is important to achieving a balanced budget.
Changes to the National Planning Policy Framework have been announced with immediate effect, therefore all current planning applications have had to be reviewed: generating a huge workload, cost, and delay.
On a positive note, the South Brent woodland has been established, with two thousand trees planted. It is named Hope Forest.
Cllr McKay said he is working to hold South West Water to account and has submitted five environment information requests. He went to a summit and met counterparts at other local authorities.
There was a discussion about a possible new car park and new housing on the edge of the village. Cllr Bond said that SHDC has indicated that it is willing to take on the construction of the car park.
Devon County Council Councillor
DCC Cllr Hawkins said that the Government has decided that devolution will happen and that we need to protect residents interests. 900,000 people is the preferred size for a unitary authority and the minimum size 500,000 people. The request to delay DCC elections was made because the timescale to respond on devolution is short. Councils will bid for what they want. The Government will make a decision regarding devolution by the end of the year. Cllr Hawkins has emailed the Neighbourhood Officer about the Jubilee Steps handrail. The Dartmouth Foodbank has had its busiest ever Christmas and it’s tenth anniversary. Dartmouth Youth Club would like to take on the old RNLI hut and an architect has done a plan. DCC has received £83 million from Government to spend on Highways.
Financial Matters
Financial Reports
The Financial Reports were noted. The total funds were £90,010.00 and unearmarked general fund £34,507.07.
Payments
It was resolved to authorise the following payments:
South West Water, Quay tap 17 September to 12 December 2024, £35.57
SHDC extra emptying of bins on The Ham The Ham, £151.20+VAT
Car Park Attendant October to December 2024, £500
Clerk December expenses reimbursement, £31.24
The following payments authorised and made since the last monthly meeting were noted:
Tindle News, Car Park machine attendant advert, £168
Kingsbridge Websites, Website accessibility check, £80
Sportsmans Arms, Strategy day refreshments, £99.50
It was noted that the contractor who removed the bench from near toilet block in 2024 has chosen not to invoice DPC. The meeting discussed this and all Cllrs agreed that DPC will write to the contractor to thank them for their support.
SHDC Planning Decisions
The following decisions were noted:
3645/24/ARC Pump Cottage The Level Dittisham TQ6 0ES. Application for approval of details reserved by condition 4 (ASHP) to planning consent 2406/24/HHO. Discharge of Condition Approved.
3187/24/HHO Shimmerings, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS. Householder application for erection of new outbuilding & retaining wall in rear garden. Conditional Approval.
1884/24/LBC Myrtle Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX. Listed Building Consent for replacement windows, cement render removed & replaced with lime render, soil pipe reinstated, facia board & gutter/downpipe replaced & general repairs. Conditional Approval.
New Planning Applications
4093/24/ARC Land Adjacent Fairholme Riverside Road Dittisham. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 6 (Arboricultural Method Statement & Tree Protection Plan) & 9 (CEMP) to planning consent 1476/24/FUL.
No comment will be made by DPC. It was noted that this application has an excellent Construction Management Plan. DPC will talk to applicant about making arrangement to publicise it as an example of good practice. It was also noted that the decision notice is also very good and could be placed in the Councillors cloud folder as a resource for Cllrs. Cllr Golding will email it to the Clerk.
New Tree Applications
4084/24/TCA The Ham Ham Lane Dittisham Dartmouth TQ6 0HS. T1: Willow (Salix Alba) – re-pollard, cutting back to previous growth points. T2: Ash (Fraxinus Excelsior) – use the willow wood chippings to spread around base of this ash tree.
The meeting noted DPC’s application.
Planning Applications received between meetings
4015/24/TCA Dittisham Court Dittisham TQ6 0HS. T3210: Copper Beech – Crown raise to give clearance of 4m to protect tree from passing traffic. T3212 : 2 x Tulip trees – Crown raise to 1.75m to improve access for mowing. G2 – Beech hedge – remove approximately 7 stems protruding into orchard to improve usability of space. T1 – Magnolia – Reduce crown by approximately 1-1.5 metres & to suitable pruning points to improve crown symmetry & reduce risk of failure.
It was noted that this application was reviewed by Clerk and Tree Warden and the decision made not to submit a comment.
Consultations
‘Strengthening the Standards and Conduct Framework for Local Authorities in England’ Government Consultation. Closes 12 February 2025.
‘Local Audit Reform: A Strategy For Overhauling The Local Audit System in England’. Closes 29 January 2025.
DPC is not submitting a response to the above consultations. Cllrs may choose to respond individually.
Capton Triangle Trees
The Report from Cllr Neale about an assessment carried out by DPC’s tree safety inspector was noted. It was resolved to progress as per the report. Quotes will be obtained for consideration by the next meeting.
Management of Air Ambulance Light on The Ham
The Report explaining that the light is not working was noted and discussed. Possible options discussed for future consideration were to decommission, use as a flag pole, remove, use to provide a power supply. It was asked if the supply can be metered.
Government (.gov.uk) Domains
It was resolved to agree with the Report’s proposal to defer and review in Autumn 2024 the possible migration of www.dittishamparish.co.uk to a .gov.uk domain.
2025/26 Budget and Precept
An extraordinary meeting to decide the 2025/26 Budget and Precept demand was scheduled for 29 January 2025 at 7:15 pm.
Review of DPC Working Groups, Committee, and nominated Positions of Responsibility
The review the roles and Cllrs nominations to them will be an item on the next Agenda.
Memorial Benches on The Ham
An update was received about the existing memorial plaque on the bench proposed for restoration and rededication with a new memorial plaque. It was resolved that after six weeks of advertising DPC will progress with restoration and rededication of the bench.
It was resolved that the Maintenance Working Group will progress the development of a policy and procedures regarding how long a memorial bench will remain committed, creation of a register, and annual review of contact details. Parishioner’s feedback is welcome.
Correspondence and Contacts:
The following correspondence was noted or considered:
9/12/24, Sent to C Voaden MP & to Airband – Upgrading internet connectivity. Response received about actions being taken & emailed to DPC Cllrs on 14 and 16 December respectively.
17/12/24, Request to remove overhanging vegetation affecting Jubilee Steps. Response received and actioned with tree works pending.
Next Meeting
It was confirmed that the next monthly meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 5 February 2025 at 7:00 pm.
As already agreed by the meeting, an extraordinary meeting will take place on 29 January to decide the 2025/26 budget and precept demand.
Closure of the Meeting
It was resolved to pass a resolution 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.
Contracts Updates
The advertised new Car Park Attendant Contract
The closing date has been extended to increase the number of applications received. The meeting confirmed the practical extension of the previous contract as requested in the Report.
The extension of the Grounds Maintenance Contract
Further information is needed before a decision can be made about how to proceed.
The meeting closed at 20:46.
Feb 14, 2025 | Minutes
DRAFT Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council held in
Dittisham Village Hall on Wednesday 5 February 2025 at 7:00p.m.
a. Public Forum
No discussion.
Present: Parish Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Hawkes, Neale, Pope, and Unitt were present, as were Devon County Cllr Hawkins, South Hams District Cllr McKay, and A Thom, Clerk. There were no members of the public present.
Absent: Cllr Green.
Apologies
None received.
Declaration of Interests
Cllr Golding declared a personal interest in 0143/25/ARC & 0139/25/ARC 27 Dittisham Court Dittisham TQ6 0HS.
Cllr Pope declared a disclosable pecuniary interest in 3571/24/HHO Shearwater Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS.
Community Reports
South Hams District Council Councillor
SHDC Cllr McKay reported on the Government’s devolution plans. Local council elections will take place in May 2025 as planned, and Cllr McKay has forwarded the relevant Secretary of State’s letter to DPC this afternoon. SHDC has until 21 March 2025 to provide its preliminary devolution proposal to Government and until 28 November 2025 to provide its firm proposal about how to devolve. These are challenging time scales. Cllr McKay expects May 2027 elections will be the last for at least two, maybe three, years. Parish councils won’t be affected, except one councillor not two will attend parish council meetings. SHDC’s next plan will cover two years, not the usual one year. The Chief Executive of DCC has suggested the cost of transition may be £100 million, which may cause the Government to change its mind. SHDC needs to plan for all eventualities.
Regarding the new car parking tariffs, Cllr McKay thinks the system is too complicated. It will be reviewed at six months. This is an amendment to evaluate a potential negative impact on tourism.
Cllr McKay is pleased that the planning application to build 194 dwellings at Baltic Wharf in Totnes, on the site of the boatyard, was refused. He has been lobbying for that outcome. SHDC is now considering how to use the site to support local employment.
Cllr McKay has money left in the SHDC environment fund. It needs to be used by March 2025. SHDC has received a poor financial settlement from central Government and as one result has asked Cllr McKay not to roll over unspent environmental fund to the next financial year. The meeting discussed applying to apply to the environment fund for the work being done to Capton triangle. The Clerk was asked to apply. The Friends of the Dart will be told about the fund.
Devon County Council Councillor
DCC Cllr Hawkins reported that the CVS has closed. He said that DCC has tried to work with them however there was a problem getting information about what they were doing. DCC’s core funding of the CVS ceased in 2018. DCC elections will take place in May 2025. DCC’s devolution proposals are due 21 March 2025. Cllr Hawkins thinks that the 2027 elections will probably be to create a unitary authority.
There is a Dartmouth Youth Club petition, please sign. It is on the TQ6 Facebook page.
Cllr Unitt explained to Cllr Hawkins the proposed actions to progress the Jubilee Steps handrail proposal which are on today’s Agenda.
Financial Matters
Payments
It was resolved to authorise the following payments:
Lloyds Bank – Giving Full Access Users the ability to share data from accountancy software providers with Lloyds Bank
It was resolved that DPC will respond to Lloyds that DPC will opt out.
- South Hams District Council’s Planning Decisions
The following decision was noted:
3571/24/HHO Shearwater Riverside Road Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Householder application for general alterations to internal layout, driveway access, window replacement & some changes to external fenestration & detailing. Conditional Approval.
- New Planning Applications
0245/25/FUL & 0246/25/LBC Chipton Barton Dittisham TQ6 0HW. Household and Listed Building Consent for renovation & change of use of former cider barn to ancillary use.
Support (by resolution): DPC will respond that the Climate Emergency Compliance Form was not located. The Parish Council will ask SHDC to obtain the required Form. It will also ask how the building will be heated.
0143/25/ARC & 0139/25/ARC 27 Dittisham Court Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Application for approval of details reserved by conditions 3 (Timber windows & doors), 4 (Roof Glazing), 5 (Slate), 6 (External Attachments) & 7 (Render Type) to planning consent 0342/22/HHO & 0343/22/LBC
No comment is being made by DPC.
Consultations
The following consultation was noted.
No comment is being made by DPC. Cllrs may respond individually.
Devolution
At a recent Devon Association of Local Councils’ information and discussion meeting Parish Councils were asked to provide a short statement to DALC by mid-February, to support DALC’s advocacy on behalf of Parish Councils. It was agreed that the Clerk will modify an existing text to write this statement. The DALC meeting also suggested mapping whether there are areas of land in parishes which are currently owned by SHDC or DCC which the parish councils might want to have transferred into their ownership. Cllrs McKay and Hawkins will be asked if SHDC and DCC records show such assets.
Councillors’ Committee, Working Groups, and External Forums
Cllr Neale’s proposed review the structure of the working groups was discussed. It was agreed to retain Communications and Car Parks Groups. Dog Fouling was absorbed into the Maintenance Group. Regarding the Police and Crime Commissioner role, Cllr Bond will attend a session and investigate if there is value in DPC being involved. Cllr Pope will replace Cllr Nightingale as a representative of DPC on the Parish of Dittisham Charity. Both Cllrs Unitt and Hawkes will be Health representatives. Cllr Neale was added to the Climate & Environment Working Group and Cllr Unitt has withdrawn from it. Cllr Bond replaces Cllr Nightingale on the Finance Working Group. The description of the Finance Working Group will be updated to state that at least one of the Chair and Vice-Chair will be members. Cllr Pope will replace Cllr Nightingale on the Personnel Committee and Subcommittee.
The proposal document names three task and finish groups: Neighbourhood Plan, New Village Car Park Development, West Dart Bus. The proposal document names five Outside Bodies Liaison roles, four were retained and Climate & Environment was categorised as a Working Group.
It was resolved to authorise all of the changes. Cllr Neale will circulate a revised document.
Cllrs were asked to provide the Clerk with their photos for the parish website. The Clerk was asked to remove the Parish Lengthsman’s contact details from the parish website and to ask if they would like to add an image.
‘South Hams Way’ Request
It was resolved to respond that DPC supports the project in principle, however it does not have the power to provide requested permission for the placement of waymarkers to sign the route. It will be in suggested in the response that the organisers obtain the necessary permission from those that do have such authority.
Reports from Councillors’ Working Groups and External Forums
Maintenance
It was resolved to confirm the Working Group’s view that work for the 2024 grounds maintenance contract is complete.
Emergency Team
The Report regarding starting to consider an emergency generator in the Hall was noted.
Slippery Path to Dittisham Mill Creek
It was resolved to approve the maintenance proposed in the report to DPC: to purchase a large(36”) yard broom and to add to the Parish Lengthsman’s contract a monthly sweep from December through to April (about an hour’s work each time).
Administration
It was noted that the Clerk has started to use an email marketing platform to send Information Group emails.
Correspondence & Contacts
The following was noted or considered:
SHDC, Invitation to nominate for Community Awards. Closes 10/2/25.
7/1/25 South Hams District Council states its position on local government reform. It does do not support the creation of one unitary council for Devon and wants time to consult the community.
17/1/25 SHDC Removal of Bottle Banks by February to March 2025. Will include removal of the bank on The Ham in March.
Clear Councils Risk Management for Local and Parish Councils 26th February, Online session 12-1pm
Opergy Net Zero, Net Zero Pathways for Parish and Town Councils. Online session on 4/2/25
New in Neighbourhood Planning. Online session on 6/2/25.
Next Meeting
It was confirmed that the next monthly meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 5 March 2025 at 7:00 pm.
Dates of 9 April and 30 April were suggested for holding the Annual Parish Meeting. The Neighbourhood Planning speaker will be invited to return. Dark Skies and Seals on the River Dart were discussed as other possible topics of interest to Parishioners.
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 items because of the commercial-in-confidence nature of the business.
Capton Treeworks
It was resolved to approve the recommendation in the Report to accept the lower cost quote of £215 exVAT from the contractor carrying out works to the Willow on The Ham to do the Capton works on the same visit to the Parish.
Playground Annual Inspection
It was resolved to approve the recommendation in the Report to have the 2025 inspection carried out by RoSPA and to pay to meet the inspector on-site, total cost £130.
- 2024/25 Internal Auditor
It was resolved to approve the Internal Auditor recommended in the Report at a cost of £195.
Jubilee Steps Handrail
The Maintenance Working Group Report’s proposal regarding how to progress the project was considered. The meeting was advised the MWG is satisfied with its check of the quality of the proposed contractors work. It was resolved to progress with the Report’s proposal to accept the quotation of £5,269 (no VAT) for the handrail on the Jubilee Steps and proceed with the work subject to the contractor being able to obtain a S171 licence from Devon County Council and the Dittisham Charity providing match funding. And that if the licence is refused DPC will remunerate the contractor for their time spent in making the application and the application fee.
DPC will also seek funding from DCC and SHDC Cllrs.
Management of a Freehold Title
DPC considered its next actions to meet its responsibilities as the owner of the freehold. A plan on the next actions was approved by five resolutions.
The meeting closed at 21:20.
Dec 20, 2024 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the Monthly Meeting of Dittisham Parish Council on
Wednesday 4 December 2024 in Dittisham Village Hall
Present: Parish Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond (Vice-Chair), Golding, Hawkes, Neale, Pope, and Unitt, and Devon County Council Cllr Hawkins.
Absent: Cllrs Green and Lloyd.
There were no members of the public present in person and there was no Zoom audio-connection.
Public Forum
No matters were raised.
Apologies
Apologies for absence were received from DPC Cllr Lloyd and SHDC Cllr McKay.
Declaration of Interests
Cllr Pope declared an interest in the planning application for Shearwater.
Cllr Hawkes declared an interest in the Friends of the Dart grant application.
Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 6 November 2024.
Community Reports
4.1. South Hams District Council Councillor
Deferred in the absence of Cllr McKay.
4.2. Devon County Council Councillor
Cllr Hawkins reported that there will be a full council meetings for both SHDC and DCC on Thursday 5 December.
SHDC will be debating the proposed new parking charges on 6 December 2024. This will be followed by a public consultation before final decisions are made in the New Year.
A decision will be made in February 2025 about devolution to combine DCC with Torbay Council. The Government are thinking about making Devon and Cornwall into a combined authority. Cllr Hawkins has serious reservations about introducing a Mayoral system.
The Friday Hub at Townstal Community Hall continues to support the needs of local people. Families receiving child credit benefits will receive £20 vouchers for each child this Christmas. DCC is liaising with schools to give children of families who fall just outside the criteria to also receive the voucher.
The Youth Club goes from strength to strength.
A major donor has come forward to support the development of the RNLI building project, should it go ahead.
FREE trips for children: Plymouth Argyle fixture; Panto at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth; Roller blading at the Dartmouth Leisure Centre; Fish and Chips at Rockfish.
Cllr Hawkins asked if the information about the Townstal Community Hub could be put in the Parish Magazine. This was agreed and Cllr Nightingale suggested creating an advert for this purpose.
Cllr Hawkes suggested using the West Dart Bus to take youngsters from outlying villages to the Youth Club activities.
Review of DPC Car Parks’ Tariffs
The Chair proposed to suspend Standing Order 7(c) so the future car parks’ tariffs for Dittisham Parish Council’s Car Parks could be reconsidered. Carried (by resolution)
It was resolved to adopt the residents discount scheme, as per SHDC proposal, and to adopt SHDC’s proposed standard tariffs for its car parks in Totnes (excluding Longmarsh) with following modifications: No 30 minute, 24 hour, or overnight parking.
DPC’s proposals will be fed back to SHDC for inclusion in their public consultation, due to start in the near future.
Closure of the Meeting at 19.30
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 or legal nature of the business.
DCC Cllr Hawkins left the meeting.
Management of a Freehold Title
This item was moved forward on the Agenda at the Chair’s discretion.
It was resolved to approve the payment of the invoice for £500 received from DPC’s solicitors.
An action plan was agreed to progress the management of the Freehold Title
Meeting re-opened to members of the public and press at 19.30.
Finance
9.1. Financial Reports
The Financial Reports and Bank Reconciliations were noted. The reports showed total funds of £91,257.95 and an unearmarked general fund of £38,332.52 at 30 November 2024.
9.2. Payments
The following payments were authorised:
Village Hall Hire July to November 2024 £130.00
Clerk November expenses reimbursement £37.86
Royal British Legion grant £50.00
Cllr Hawkes left the meeting
9.3. Grant Application Request
It was resolved to make a grant of £500 to the Friends of the Dart.
Cllr Hawkes returned to the meeting.
9.4 Draft 2025/26 Budget
The report was noted. The Finance Working Group will meet again to finalise a proposed budget.
Grants Received to support the purchase of the Defibrillator on The Ham
It was agreed to write to thank Dittisham Sailing Club, The Parish of Dittisham Charity, and Devon County Council for their financial support.
SHDC Planning Decisions since the November meeting
The following decision was noted:
New Planning Applications
12.1 2482/24/HHO Tunis, The Quay. Dittisham TQ6 0EZ. Householder application for extension to rear of property with associated works inc demolition & rebuild of existing ancillary building.
OBJECT (by resolution) with the following comments:
The proposal to extend the property from a 2/3 bedroom dwelling to a property providing 4 bedrooms is contributing to the poor housing mix in the Parish and the under supply for 1/2/3 bedroom dwellings in Dittisham Parish. (ONS data shows an overprovision of 4 bedroom dwellings in Dittisham Parish).
Notable increase in hard landscaping / loss of permeable and green landscaping leading to increased surface water run-off.
Upscaling of ‘shed’ (as described on plans submitted) to bedroom accommodation is considered over-development.
Increased vehicular traffic in the Conservation Area.
Overall increase to light pollution. DPC is concerned to reduce the cumulative effect of light pollution on the survival of nocturnal species and on residential amenity and recognises the importance of preserving dark landscapes and dark skies.
Overall negative impact on the associated Listed Buildings and the character of the Conservation Area.
If the development is approved, DPC requests:
A condition that the proposed garden accommodation shall not be used as a separate dwelling and remains as proposed, as an ancillary bedroom.
A suitable construction management plan due to the access difficulties of the site.
Appropriate conditions to minimise light pollution, particular attention being on external & garden lighting.
Cllr Pope left the meeting.
12.2 3571/24/HHO Shearwater, Riverside Road, Dittisham TQ6 0HS. Householder application for general alterations to internal layout, driveway access, window replacement & some changes to external fenestration & detailing.
SUPPORT (by resolution).
Cllr Pope returned to the meeting.
12.3 Variation of premises licence. Application from The Slipway Café Limited, Unit 4-5 Quayside House, Galmpton TQ5 0EH for a variation to their premises licence. The application is to extend the licensable activities outdoor to a pop-up kitchen from a container and include the seating area on a covered wooden deck as well as all picnic benches of which are in the current car park adjacent to The Slipway Café location.
It was agreed that no comment will be made by DPC.
Cllr Golding gave her apologies and left the meeting.
Consultation – Remote Meetings
It was agreed that Cllrs would respond individually to this consultation.
https://consult.communities.gov.uk/local-government-standards-and-conduct/remote-attendance-and-proxy-voting
Closes 19 December 2024
Reports from Working Groups & Councillors with Special Responsibilities
14.1 Village Hall Management Committee
The reports from Cllr Neale were noted:
14.2 New Village Car Park Working Group
Cllr Bond gave a verbal update and further meetings will be arranged to try to progress this project.
14.3 West Dart Bus
The report from Cllr Hawkes was noted. DPC are pleased that the work to secure the future of the bus is progressing well.
DPC’s Zoom Subscription Costs
The proposal to cease the subscription to Zoom was carried by resolution.
Dittisham Community Group to purchase The Red Lion Inn
The Community Group had asked if DPC would like to have a Cllr on the steering group. It was agreed to send a letter declining this offer. However should the Red Lion be purchased by the Group DPC would be willing to become involved in developing its future.
Correspondence
Next Meeting
It was confirmed that the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on 15 January 2025 at 7:00 pm.
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 or legal nature of the business.
Grounds Maintenance Contract
It was resolved to agree the proposal to take up the option to extend the contract for three years to 31 December 2027.
Ham Lane Hedge Maintenance
The Chair proposed to suspend Standing Order 7(c) to consider a revision of the quote accepted by the November meeting. It was resolved to accept the revised quote of £810+VAT.
Quotes for recommended work to re-pollard the Willow on The Ham
It was resolved to accept a quote of £380 to carry out the works.
The meeting closed at 9:25 p.m.
Nov 15, 2024 | Minutes
APPROVED Minutes of the monthly meeting of Dittisham Parish Council on
Wednesday 6th November 2024 in Dittisham Village Hall
Present: Cllrs Nightingale (Chair), Bond(Vice-Chair), Golding, Green, Hawkes, Neale, Pope, and Unitt
Absent: Cllr Lloyd
There were no members of the public present in person and there was no Zoom audio-connection.
Public Forum: No issues were raised
1. To receive apologies for absence. None.
2. Declaration of Interests: Cllr Neale declared an Other Registerable Interest in the Dittisham
Village Hall Management Committee grant application.
3. Approval of Minutes
It was resolved to approve the Minutes of the meeting held on 2nd October 2024.
4. Community Reports
4.1. South Hams District Council Councillor
Cllr John McKay reported that SHDC has agreed terms with Dartington Hall Estate about the Cider Press project. Discussions continue with regard to Schumacher College.
The Climate Change symposium was very successful. A decision regarding the South Hams Festival will be made on 21st November 2024.
The SHDC budget is being progressed. A consultation regarding SHDC car parking charges will be available soon.
Cllrs questioned Cllr McKay on the following issues:
Tax on second homes (non-primary residences) – how are these residences identified? How will the extra revenue be spent?
Inheritance tax – the effect on farmers?
Cllr McKay will investigate and report back at a future meeting.
4.2. Devon County Council Councillor
Cllr Jonathan Hawkins reported that he had agreed to the locality fund (£500) being put towards the cost of the defibrillator on The Ham.
Dartmouth Youth Club – Well attended. Several free trips have been organised. Ivy Lane hasn’t been sold yet, so the Club can continue to meet there for a while longer. Plans for the development of the RNLI building will continue.
Friday Hub at Townstal Village Hall 10.30-1pm. Reminder that free refreshments, access to a range of services and the foodbank are available.
Dartmouth Composting project is progressing.
Cllr Hawkins attended a SHDC Overview and Scrutiny meeting that was specially arranged to raise concerns with officers from South West Water about pollution in our rivers from sewage and flooding.
SHDC have a financial deficit of £1.3 million (mostly as a result of the cost of waste and recycling and the Leisure Centres).
‘Tractor of lights’ event: Dec 14th driving from Dartmouth Park and Ride to Town Centre.
5. Financial Matters
5.1. Financial Reports
The Financial Reports and Bank Reconciliations were noted.
Finance Committee to discuss and clarify presentation of the financial information.
Car Parks Working Group to report back to a future meeting re parking meter data that they
require.
5.2. Payments: The following payments were authorised:
Defibrillator The Ham £2,795.00
Scribe Accounting Software £328.32
RingGo Service Fee July-September 2024 £311.90
Clerk Expenses Reimbursement for £67.12
Parish Lengthsman June to September 2024, £287.50
Annual Level Car Park Loan repayment £5,000
Payments authorised since the last monthly meeting were noted:
5.3. Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2023/2024
The Final Report from the External Auditor was noted
5.4. Local Government Pay Award 2024/25
The implementation of the new Award was noted.
6. Planning Decisions to note since our October meeting.
6.1. 2279/24/LBC and 2280/24/HHO The Old Bakehouse, Manor Street, Dittisham. TQ6 0EX.
Householder application to add double pile with half hipped extension to rear, raise ridge line, addition of roof lights & dormer & internal alterations to create new bedroom suite:
Conditional approval for both LBC and HHO applications
6.2. 2620/24/LBC and 621/24/HHO Lilac Cottage,The Level, Dittisham,TQ6 0ES
Householder application for loft alterations, minor alterations to first floor & outbuilding:
Conditional approval for both LBC and HHO applications
7.0 New Planning Applications
7.1 2812/24/HHO High Standing, Rectory Lane, Dittisham, TQ6 0HD – Proposal: Householder application for alterations to roof tiles, installation of solar panels & roof lights, replacement & alterations of windows & doors, replacement of uPVC lobby structure & front door canopy & rendering of external walls.
SUPPORTED (by resolution) No comment
7.2 3187/24/HHO Shimmerings, Riverside Road, Dittisham, TQ6 0HS – Proposal: Householder application for erection of new outbuilding & retaining wall in rear garden: SUPPORTED (by resolution) Comment: Lighting re dark skies; not to be used as ancillary accommodation; colour of external timber cladding to blend with the surrounding.
7.3 1884/24/LBC Myrtle Cottage Manor Street Dittisham TQ6 0EX – Listed Building Consent for replacement windows, cement render removed & replaced with lime render, soil pipe reinstated, facia board & gutter/downpipe replaced & general repairs. SUPPORTED (by resolution) No comment.
8.0 Review of DPC Car Parks’ Charges, Times, and Enforcement of Parking on DPC’s Beach
The Reports were considered.
It was resolved to treat the DPC carparks as SHDC Zone 2 types with the following modifications: No 30 minute, 24 hour or overnight parking; and to apply increases to the tariffs.
It was resolved to change the charging time to start at 8am and end at 6pm.
It was resolved to maintain the current enforcement area.
It was resolved to retain the current types, numbers of permits, and eligibility criteria.
DPC’s proposals will be fed back to SHDC for inclusion in their public consultation.
9.0 Update Cllr info and composition of working groups.
To be finalised and agreed at a future meeting.
10.0 Reports from Working Groups and External Forums
10.1 Patients Participation Group Meeting
Cllr Unitt attended the meeting on October 9th 2024 and will be attending a further meeting on Friday 8th November to test the new appointment system.
10.2 Maintenance Working Group
Maintenance work on the benches on The Ham will start in the New Year.
10.3 Many thanks to the Rotary Club who have gifted some purple flowering Crocus bulbs. It was agreed to plant more bulbs in the current planting sites on the Ham triangle and in the Level Carpark to raise awareness of their ‘End Polio Now’ campaign.
10.4 Emergency Plan
Checking phone contacts and consideration of a Draft Emergency Advice Card will be discussed on the PC Planning day.
The PC are supportive of Cllr Unitt researching the technical possibilities of having an emergency generator for Village Hall.
10.5 West Dart Bus
Cllr Hawkes provided an extensive report covering the history and current situation.
He reported that more people are taking advantage of this provision.
11.0 Airband
DPC agreed for Cllrs Neale and Nightingale to write to Airband to ask for an update on broadband provision for the Parish, and to our MP to support her efforts to resolve the current situation.
12.0 Climate & Nature
Sustainable South Hams Update (SusSH) – Climate and Nature Symposium – Fri 11th Oct
Cllr Hawkes provided a comprehensive report.
The presentation by Cllr Nightingale was deferred
13.0 Grant application made to DPC
The application from Dittisham Village Hall Management Committee for a 2025/26 grant will be discussed further and a decision made at a future meeting.
14.0 Correspondence:
The correspondence was noted:
SWW limited access to roads in Ditsum in October – thanks to Cllr Bond for disseminating the information to parishioners so promptly.
South Hams Community Action – Volunteer Engagement Event. Weds 13.11.24
Letter of thanks to the organisers of the Dittisham Music Festival was much appreciated
Request for information, from Crediton PC, with regards to having drains and culverts cleared. Cllr Bond responded.
Raleigh Estate – The PC agreed to engage with the project to develop walking routes on the Estate. Cllrs Bond, Green and Neale will be involved.
The missing sign at the T junction to indicate the way to Bosomzeal – residents are encouraged to report the lack of a sign on the DCC ‘report it’ site. The correspondent has been informed that the provision of a sign is on the DCC list and DPC will contact DCC to raise the matter again.
15.0 Consultations –
The following consultations were noted
15.1 Devon and Torbay Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) sets out the transport priorities across the county between 2025 and 2040. Does DPC wish to respond? (draft document of the plan is available to view on the Have Your Say webpage)
15.2 Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue – Precept consultation
16.0 Cllrs Strategic Planning Meeting.
It was resolved to have a budget of £180.
17.0 Next Meeting:
It was confirmed that the next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on December 4th 2024 at 7:00 pm in Dittisham Village Hall.
18.0 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 because of the confidential nature of the business.
19.0 Quote for cutting Riverside Rd hedge – it was resolved to accept the quote £590.
20.0 Quote for Jubilee steps handrail – deferred.
The meeting closed 9.15pm
Ros Neale 2nd Clerk
