Draft Minutes
Draft Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 6th October 2026.
Public Forum
The prospective Councillor introduced herself and re-iterated her reasons for wishing to join the Parish Council. She has close links to the school and would like to actively support the community.
Agenda item 2026.81, if approved, will formally co-opt her onto the Council.
One member of the public attended to request a one-off grant for a community project and was referred to the Parish Council Grants Application scheme.
Council agreed that if a grant application is completed in time for the next meeting, it will be approved. An application form will be emailed out.
Councillors:
E. O’Neill (Chair), C. Hainsworth (Vice Chair), C. Russell, M. Childs, L McShane, D Bellamy,
T. O’Regan and R Chatterton.
In Attendance
Nancy Denny, Locum Clerk to the Parish Council.
Agenda Item No
2026.76 Apologies for absence.
Roy Brocklebank, Debi Heath French, Stephen Jordan-Bird
2026.77 Chair’s remarks.
Cllr E. O’Neill (Chair) thanked everyone for coming and noted that the clerks’ handover, from locum back to permanent clerk, will take place prior to the next meeting. Eleanor is ready to return, and it is hoped that both clerks will attend the meeting in November to complete the transition.
2026.78 Declarations of interest in accordance with the LGA 2000
None received
2026.79 Approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting.
Councillors agreed that the official minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on the 1st September 2026 be approved as a correct record and duly signed and dated by the Vice Chair.
2026.80 County/District Cllr Report.
No apology received from LCC Cllr C.Vernon.
SKDC Cllr Ben Green reported:
• Confirmation from County Council has finally been received about addressing the drainage issue between High Dyke and the A1 (TTRO 017626). The road will be closed for 2 weeks from the 9th November. A query was raised about where the diversion will be taking traffic, so CSCHighways@lincolnshire.gov.uk will be contacted to find out.
• The budget for the South Kesteven Community Fund has doubled in size to £200,000 and this is open for applications at any time.
• No progress has been made on the kerbside battery collection.
• The leader of Council survived a vote of no confidence. This decision cannot be revisited for 6 months.
SKDC Cllr David Bellamy reported:
• Local Government Reorganisation for Lincolnshire has been postponed. It has been scrapped for 4 other counties. It means that there will be District elections in May 2027, but the length of term of office is unknown – it could be the full 4-years or it could be one year.
• Official notification of the Stage 2 consultation period for the Western Marsh Grid upgrade has been circulated to Councillors. He attended the South Witham consultation event on Friday 2nd October. There is another event on the 17th October in Corby Glen if other Councillors are interested. There were detailed diagrams on show. The main effect will be at Honey Pot Lane and across the A1 at that point. A substation/supply depot is due to be constructed on the southbound side and also a second one on the South Witham Road, close to a pill box and across a ridge and furrow field, which is of concern as the field will be destroyed. An access road will follow the entire length of the pylon line during construction and for future maintenance. The nature of the access road is unknown: track, gravel or tarmac. Each substation will also need balancing ponds built adjacent for drainage which also may cause an issue. Renewable energy projects are likely to also be built, especially close to the substations as these can link them to the system. It was felt that it is unlikely that this project will not get the go-ahead. DB will create a Council response to the consultation for PC approval. Closure date is 11.59pm 3rd November.
• South Kesteven do not want any comments on this project unless they address specific issues. The long-term prospect is not for discussion.
• The Local Plan review has stopped, and the department moved to a new system. A new timetable needs to be set up which has a 30-month timeframe. Some information can be transferred, but additional information will need to be sought. This means that there may be a rise in indiscriminate applications.
• Nothing can be called in to a planning committee anymore. Comments can be submitted through invited consultation only.
SKDC Councillor Ben Green left 20.05
2026.81 To receive a written application for the office of Parish Councillor and to Co-opt a candidate to fill the existing vacancy.
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
After a short discussion, it was unanimously agreed that the candidate be co-opted onto the Parish Council as a Councillor for Colsterworth. The Declaration of Acceptance of Office was signed, and the Declaration of Pecuniary Interest form will be completed and returned at the next meeting.
Emma Rice joined the committee as a Councillor for the rest of the meeting.
2026.82 To consider the purchase of 7 defibrillator units for Colsterworth and District.
To explore funding options.
A discussion took place on various options for funding the 7 defibrillators for the Parish. Buckminster Estates have promised to fund the Gunby and Stainby units and have been approached to possibly help with the other units. Other funding streams to pursue could be the South Kesteven Community Fund, the Councillor Fund Scheme and approaching Colsterworth Estates. Cllr Emma Rice will share funding options she has researched for a different project. Due to the expense, the current units will be replaced on a rolling programme. The quotes received from LiveisLife were also discussed.
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
It was agreed that Option 2 (4) Vivest X3 and Rotaid 24/7 would be the units that the PC will purchase on a rolling programme.
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
To explore and apply for funding for purchasing the defibrillator units.
2026.83 To approve a quote received for a Nature Trail Tree Survey.
A quote for the additional areas had also been received and circulated to Councillors prior to the meeting.
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
To accept the two quotes to carry out a tree survey for the whole of the Nature Trail pathway.
2026.84 To nominate a Councillor to lay a wreath at the Remembrance Service 8th November
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
It was unanimously agreed to nominate Cllr Tony O’Regan to lay the wreath on behalf of Colsterworth Parish Council.
2026.85 Risk Exception Report
No further updates.
2026.86 Clerks Report Action
1. The paperwork to register the Village Hall, Colsterworth as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) was sent via email on the 4th September. The application has been forwarded to an external legal service, Legal Services Lincolnshire (LSL). They require additional information.
Following an EGM held by the members of the Sports and Social Club who run the Village Hall, a proposal was accepted for a volunteer group (Colsterworth Coaching Facility) to operate under the current lease terms to continue to provide the community with access for all clubs and organisations to this community asset.
As such and in the light of the additional information required by SKDC to register the Village Hall as an Asset of Community Value, the Parish Council has decided to withdraw the application and monitor progress in the short term, hopeful that this new operation will prove successful.
A short discussion took place explaining why the Parish Council is unable to register the Village Hall as an ACV which includes not being the owners or lessees or having access to the information about the current lease holders. The future improvement plans are yet to be clarified. Clerk/Cllr
2. Wicksteed was contacted to book the annual inspections for the Play Park. They have confirmed and inspections will be carried out in November. Clerk
3. Both Wicksteed and GM Services were contacted with reference to the repair needed on the 4-seat rocker, Old Post Lane Play Park. Wicksteed will not repair as the equipment is not theirs.
GM Services have submitted a quote to repair and tighten up all bolts on the 4 seat rocker for £166 + VAT which has been accepted. Work will be completed on Thursday 8th Oct. Clerk
4. Benches at Old Post Lane Play Park need to be re-varnished. A contractor has been contacted.
The benches have been stripped and re-varnished with the work being completed on the 30th Sept. Clerk
5. SKDC Planning authority have been paid £154.50 to consider the variation to S26/1477 submitted by the PC. This consists of the Geophysical Survey Report from the Archaeological group. Clerk
6. Our County Councillors has been emailed requesting a walkabout in Colsterworth with Highways to address key traffic issues. Clerk
7. A complaint has been raised about the number of rabbits causing significant damage at the bottom end of the allotments on Stamford Road. Key allotments holders have been contacted to see if they can contain the issue.
The lessees of the paddock have responded, and it is hoped that a collaborative approach with the complainant will help keep the population in check. Clerk
8. The purchase order for the grass cutting has been received and a sales invoice raised for LCC. Clerk
9. A picnic table has been ordered for the Nature Trail from Glasdons. Details have been shared with Councillors. Lead time is 4 to 6 weeks and the materials for the base area are also on order.
The expenditure will be on the agenda for retrospective approval by Council at the November meeting. Clerk
2026.87 Correspondence
1. An issue with dog waste on the verges in Stainby has been reported again. Strimming will be paused until this is dealt with as it is a health and safety concern. A plan of action is being discussed. Clerk/Cllrs
2. A resident queried who to contact reference a question about planning permission required in the conservation area. planning@southkesteven.go.uk was shared as a contact alongside looking at Conservation and Listed Buildings on the website.
Clerk
3. The Weston Marsh to East Leicestershire Stage 2 Consultation has been launched and is open until November 3rd. There are numerous information events planned and webinars to explain the proposals.
See District Councillors report for an update. Clerk/Cllrs
4. A response has been received from Savills with respect to the Stamford Road Allotment hedge. They have been asked to contact the complainant with their response. Clerk/Cllrs
5. An email was received from Alicia Kearn’s office with respect to the fact that Lincolnshire County Council is reviewing its policy on speed limits. The PC can put forward any concerns with speed limits through this review. Clrk/Cllrs
6. A speeding concern has been raised by a resident from Ingle Court about traffic ignoring the limits roads prior to Ingles Court and Apple Tree Close on Woolsthorpe Road. She would appreciate some discussion on traffic calming measures. It was suggested that a speed watch programme might be re-instated, but there has been an issue with volunteer numbers in the past. Clerk/Cllrs
7. The second Precept payment was received on 01/10/2026 Clerk
8. Confirmation that the engagement period for the Remembrance event (RAE001049) has been completed. The application will now be progressed.
9. A resident asked for clarification on the current development between 18 and 24 Bourne Road.
Planning permission has now been granted for 4 houses and she will be directed to the SKDC planning site for information.
2026.88 Planning
SKDC Planning Applications
S26/1677 Regulation 5 notice of intention to install fixed line broadband apparatus
Bridge End, Colsterworth NG33 5NZ
S26/1676 Regulation 5 notice of intention to install fixed line broadband apparatus
Woolsthorpe Road, Colsterworth NG33 5NX
S26/1592 Two storey side extension, associated internal alterations, demolition of existing garage, and replacement windows
Location: 32 Bourne Road, Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, NG33 5JE
Council representation upon this application must be received no later than 22nd October 2026
The PC will not enter any representation with regard to this application.
S25/1979 Acknowledgement was received on the 2nd October that the case officer at SKDC, Kevin Cartwright, is examining the application form and accompanying plans and documents for S25/1979 to see whether they comply with the law. Application Type: Discharge of Conditions. Proposal: Submission of details reserved by Condition 3 and 4 (Archeology) of planning permission S25/1979 (Change of use of agricultural field to cemetery).
Location: Old Post Lane Cemetery Extension , Old Post Lane, Colsterworth Lincolnshire
S26/1688 Proposed extensions to rear of an existing detached dormer bungalow.
Location: 9 Bourne Road, Colsterworth NG33 9DJ
The PC will not enter any representation with regard to this application.
Advance notification 088 Advance planning notification received for carriageway drainage works to be carried out at the B6403/A1 junction where the A1 meets High Dyke. Works are planned to begin on the 9th November and the road will be closed 24/7 for 2 weeks. Stakeholders will be notified.
See TTRO 017626
See District Councillors report for an update
2026.89 Finance and Administration (F & A) Committee Report (Cllrs C Hainsworth, E O’Neill, M Childs, C Russell). Next meeting tbc.
1. To approve AGAR Section 3 External Auditor’s report 2025-2026
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
To approve AGAR Section 3 External Auditor’s Report 2025-2026
2. To approve the Notice of Conclusion of Audit 2025-2026 posted on the PC website 29/08/2026.
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
To approve the Notice of Conclusion of Audit 2025-2026 posted on the PC website posted on the website 29/08/2026
3. Resolve to renew the following policies at their annual review:
1.1 CAD Grants Allocation
1.2 CAD Training and Development Policy
1.3 CAD Employment Policy
1.4 CAD Volunteer Policy
1.5 CAD Grants Application Policy
1.6 CAD Nature Trail Constitution
1.7 CAD Financial Reserves Policy
1.8 CAD IT and Email Policy
1.9 CAD Grant Application Policy
1.10 CAD Equal Opportunities Policy
1.11 CAD Publications Scheme
It was proposed, seconded
and Resolved
To approve all the above policies.
4. Net Position by Cost Centre and Code 25/09/2026 – accepted with no comments
2026.90 Planning Committee Report
1. Neighbourhood Plan Review. On Hold.
Group Reports
2026.91 Highways & Footpaths Working Group.
All Fix My Street (FMS) Reports can be found at
https://fixmystreet.lincolnshire.gov.uk/
Hedge issue blocking the pavement reported on Newton Court
Major incident reported on the Bourne Road, Monday 21st September at 21.49 by Cllr S Jordan Bird.
TTRO 017626
Organisation responsible for restriction: Lincolnshire County Council
Reason for restriction: Drainage
Nature and location of restriction:
Road closure Order - B6403 Bridge End (Between A1 & a point 150m South)
Period of restriction:
09/11/2026 - 21/11/2026
2026.92
Environment & Amenities Working Group Report.
Update from Cemetery Extension Working Group – report from South Witham Archaeological Group.
None received
Update from Nature Trail Interpretation Board (Phase 2) Working Group.
None received
The Newton 300 anniversary plans (lead Cllr D Heath French)
None received
2026.93 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT SEPTEMBER 2026
Unanimously approved - see Appendix A.
2026.94 Matters requiring attention such as potholes and faulty streetlights.
There is a major issue with dog fouling in Stainby village. It is now so bad that there are
more instances of dog fouling in Stainby than in all the other villages put together. It is now at a point where it can no longer be strimmed to the associated health hazards.
The situation has not improved since the last time it was reported.
Ideas to mitigate the issue have been shared – a dog bin, more signs, using fluorescent paint. The issue will be highlighted in the In Touch magazine for October.
Updates from Cllrs or Clerks Training Courses attended.
None attended
2026.95 The date of the next Parish Council meeting is Tuesday 3rd November 2026. There being no other business, the Chair, Ellis O’Neill, closed the meeting at 8.45pm.
SIGNED:
CHAIR DATE:
Cllr Name Constituency Attended Apologies Absent
E. O’Neill (Chair) Colsterworth 4 1
C. Hainsworth (Vice Chair) Colsterworth 5
D. Bellamy North Witham & Lobthorpe 3 2
L. McShane Colsterworth 3 2
T. O’Regan Colsterworth 5
R. Brocklebank Colsterworth 3 2
C. Russell Colsterworth 5
M. Childs Colsterworth 5
R. Chatterton Gunby & Stainby 3 2
D. Heath French Colsterworth 2 2 1
S. Jordan-Bird Colsterworth 4 1
E. Rice Colsterworth 1
Vacancy Colsterworth
Vacancy Gunby & Stainby
Vacancy North Witham & Lobthorpe