Minutes
Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 7th November 2023.
Public Forum
There were 15 members of the public in attendance.
Gunby Brook: - First to speak was a resident from Gunby who spoke about Gunby Brook and how this should be an attractive feature in the village but over the past 4/5 years it has not been cleared regularly enough and had recently led to flooding events with lots of weeds blocking the brook.
Can the PC budget for this to be maintained?
Chairperson Cllr C Hainsworth said that they were aware of the communications the resident had had with the Clerk and that they had already made enquiries and will contact them again. The resident was happy to leave it there.
Cllr L McShane established from the resident that the maintenance of the Brook was carried out by “Black Sluice Internal Drainage Board”. Cllr L McShane suggested that the PC could write to them asking if they could carry out additional maintenance.
Gunby Potential Anaerobic Digestion Plant (Biogas) - Next to speak was another resident from Gunby who produced a model of the proposed Biogas development showing the actual impact in terms of size. They understood that there would be two tanks measuring 19 metres in height. The model showed the scale of the domes and storage units in relation to the terraced houses in Gunby. They expressed their opinion that it will not be about farming but will be a factory industry site not suitable for the village of Gunby.
Those attending reported that the consultation by Ironstone Energy had not reassured the public with the following comments: -
• The lorry movements has already been increased to 120 a day.
• Real concerns that this is not an agricultural development but an industry and will be the size of Gunby village.
• Current experience of the harvest has been poor with mud and lorries at the Stainby crossroads causing problems.
A discussion took place on the pros and cons of the proposed development with one member of the public in support as they were experienced in farming.
A member of the public understood that the planning application would be put in over the Christmas period during school holidays and a traffic survey carried out would not be representative of the normal volume of traffic. They were also hoping to visit one of the plants in Norfolk that had been organised by Ironstone Energy. They also believe that there is a plant at Gonerby Hill Foot which has been extended.
Cllr C Hainsworth was able to let those present know that LCC Cllr Vernon had received confirmation that the planning authority was SKDC and not LCC as there had been a query around this and that LCC would be a consultee. Once the application had been made it was important for all residents to put forward their views.
Drain outside 12 Ramsey Court, Colsterworth: - A resident reported that this drain had been repeatedly reported on FMS and reported to SKDC and LCC. Both authorities said it was not their responsibility and the “job” has been closed.
Residents had photographic evidence of the problem showing flooding with associated dangers of forcing people to have to walk round it in the road (including children and older people between the cars). The drain is silted up and that silt overflows on to the pavement. The sitting water will also freeze over in cold weather.
In November 2022 someone did come and rod it, but the blockage was so great it broke the rod.
Action: The PC to write to LCC Highways/SKDC
Old Larkfleet Development/Colsterworth Trust Estates: - Several residents reported that there appears to be some activity on the development site and had heard that building will be starting in the new year.
Cllr D Bellamy explained that as far as they were aware there would need to be a new planning application submitted.
Cllr C Hainsworth explained that the PC were not aware of anything progressing on this but had shared a draft letter to SKDC with Cllrs E O’Neil, L McShane, A Bouvie and C Russell with a view to open communications regarding a re-negotiated s.106 Agreement. Action Letter to be sent to SKDC.
Steels Lane, Colsterworth: - A member of the public requested that the tree at the bottom of Steels Lane with the High Street is cut down as it is obscuring the view into the road and is scraping against cars as they come down the Lane. Action The Clerk will visit the area to establish responsibility for cutting back the tree.
Woolsthorpe by Colsterworth Issues: - A resident from Woolsthorpe reported the following issues.
• Vegetation is encroaching on the brick bus shelter on Woolsthorpe Road – The Clerk to investigate the responsibility for cutting back the vegetation.
• Hedges/trees adjacent to the play park need cutting back. There are no streetlights along that section of the road making it difficult to see any stray protruding branches when walking along the footpath in the dark. The hedges along Woolsthorpe Roadside of the play area are scheduled to be cut back in November. Agreed at PC Meeting 7th November 2023 agenda item 2023.106.
• Water Lane/Old Post Lane – There is a build-up of gravel at the junction which does not allow the water to freely run away. Post meeting note: FMS Report made by the Clerk, Ref: 478299.
• Can the PC investigate alternative options for displaying the PC Christmas Lights in December 2024 if the Yew Trees in the St John the Baptist Church yard grow too big to display the lights in the usual way.
The Public Forum was extended to 8.05pm to allow all those present to speak.
Councillors: C Hainsworth, E O’Neill, L McShane, A Bouvie, C Russell, D Bellamy, M Childs, C Rowland, R Chatterton, and S Banwait.
Cllrs D Bellamy and S Banwait left the meeting at 9pm.
In Attendance
Apologies received from Sue Grant, Clerk to the Parish Council. Valid reasons given.
Cllrs B Green & D Bellamy. Cllr B Green left at 8.15pm and Cllr D Bellamy left at 9pm.
Agenda Item No
2023.101 Apologies for absences, K Vickers, G Henton and J Clark. Valid reasons given.
2023.102 Chairman’s remarks.
Chairperson Cllr C Hainsworth welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked Cllr L McShane for volunteering to take notes of the meeting in the absence of the Clerk.
2023.103 Declarations of interest in accordance with the LGA 2000
Cllr C Hainsworth declared an interest in agenda item 2023.118 being a member of
Colsterworth Festival of Remembrance
2023.104 Approval of the Minutes of the previous meeting.
Cllr R Chatterton abstained as they were not present at the previous meeting. All other members present agreed that the official minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on 3rd October 2023 be approved as a correct record and duly signed and dated by the chairperson.
2023.105 County/District Councillor Report.
LCC Cllr C Vernon Report: - Sent their apologies. Cllr C Hainsworth confirmed that they had received confirmation from Cllr C Vernon that SKDC are the Local Planning Authority for the potential Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Plant within Gunby
SKDC Cllr D Bellamy Report: -
1. Local Plan review is being undertaken and it suggests that there are likely to be more housing allocations to the Parish. Cllr D Bellamy is on the Working Group and will keep the PC informed.
2. SKDC Prosperity Fund - This has now closed for funding until next financial year. Any applications considered could still receive funding but not until April 2024.
SKDC Cllr B Green Report: -
3. Battery scheme being introduced with roll out anticipated in March 2024.
4. Bins for paper and card (“Purple bins”) are being rolled out for 2024.
5. Veterans Council Tax Relief – closed now and some complex considerations will need to be made in the process with LCC. This is hoped to be carried forward to 2025.
6. Clarification has been sought from the Chief Inspector that the Police Office is currently not in use for the next 6 months.
7. An Oak tree has been donated to the Parish Council and this will be given to the Nature Trail Ranger.
8. Sandbags – due to the current “opt in” to take delivery, it is being considered whether this should be an “opt out”.
2023.106 Resolve to accept the Annual Village Hedge Trimming quotation.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Unanimously approved total cost £825.00 excl vat.
2023.107 Resolve to discuss the quotation for repairs to the play areas highlighted on the annual Wicksteed Inspection.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Unanimously agreed to the quotation for the repairs to the following at Colster Way Play Area including labour: -
1. Replacement chains for 2 x cradle seat swings.
2. Cable Runway – adjustment to the cable stop position.
3. Overhead rotator – Replacement chains.
4. See Saw – Replace main stanchion column.
5. Spring Sea Saw – Replacement fixing cap.
6. Surfer – Replacement bolt covers x 4.
A total cost of £4,711.60 excl vat.
2023.108 Resolve to approve the Grant application from Colsterworth PTFA for £500 towards a shed to store ‘Pre Loved’ uniform.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Unanimously agreed.
2023.109 Discuss how to better prepare for any future flooding. (Cllr D Bellamy).
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
A discussion took place and Cllr D Bellamy is taking up some very pertinent issues with the Environment Agency as a District Cllr so will be happy to share and represent the PC.
Discussed the possibility of having a much more focused and local plan for the Parish as the Emergency Plan is too broad. Although the Resilience Forum leads on emergencies, it may not always be able to respond locally so storage of sandbags or equivalent (e.g., acqua bags) may be something to consider.
The A1 slip road was also mentioned due to the flooding. There is uncertainty about whether any work was carried out.
The subject of flooding to be brought back to a future PC Meeting.
2023.110 Discuss options for storage of the Road Closed Signs used for the annual Remembrance Service.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Resolved to be deferred to the Clerk to determine the storage location.
2023.111 Risk Exception Report.
Cllrs accepted the status of the report with no amendments.
2023.112 Clerks Report Action
1 The rotten gatepost at Stamford Road allotments has been replaced and the gate re-attached with a new hinge. Clerk
2 £300 cheques received from The Frederick Ingle Charity towards an interpretation board for the Nature Trail. Clerk
3 Second report that the hedge on Old Post Lane close to FP 15 is obstructing the footpath. FMS report made and work has now been completed by LCC Highways department. Clerk
4 Double sided speed sign removed from Bourne Road by Balfour Beatty builders. Balfour Beatty will re-instate the sign withing a few days. Highways informed FMS476772. Clerk
5 The Clerk continues to follow up with HillTridant regarding the replacement hinges for the gate at Colster Way play area. Clerk
2023.113 Correspondence received
1 Request for an extra dog waste bin on the Nature Trail. Cllrs
2 Letter from Lincolnshire Police inviting the Parish Council to the upcoming Parish Council Engagement Session for Colsterworth and District. Clerk/Cllrs
3 SKDC - Review of Polling District and Polling Places - Formal Consultation Clerk/Cllrs
4 Confirmation of boundary responsibility between the paddock and the Woodyard at Stamford Road allotments. Clerk
5 Email from an allotment holder expressing disagreement with the proposal that the allotment rent could be increased to cover the costs of cutting down weeds on neglected sites. Clerk/Cllrs
6 Telephone call suggesting the Parish Council in some way acknowledge those in the community that freely give their time for others in the community. The Parish Council uses the ‘Spotlight On” article in the In Touch magazine for this purpose. Clerk
7 Request from the Trail Ranger to purchase safety gloves and loppers from the Nature Trail budget. Clerk
8 Confirmation from East Mercia Rivers Trust that the work on the Colsterworth project has been completed. Clerk
9 Email received regarding the reduced visits by contactors to remove the weeds on the banks of Gunby Brook from twice a year to once. These visits by contractors are arranged by SKDC. Once a year is not sufficient the Brook often floods. Clerk/Environment agency.
2023.114 Planning Applications - SKDC Comments
S23/1763 Retrospective application for retention of barn erected in industrial park. Black Bull Industrial Park , Woolleys Lane, Lobthorpe, Lincolnshire, NG33 5LL None
23/1916 T1 Ash Remove to ground level. The tree is showing significant signs of ash dieback and is in very poor health compared to neighbouring trees. 19 Newton Way, Woolsthorpe By Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, NG33 5NR, None
23/1956 Trees in CA - Section 211 Notice in relation to a maple tree, approx 40ft high, within 3 metres of room adjoining garage and 4 metres of next door's property. (30 Newton Way) Also overhangs gravel drive where cars are parked. Insurance companies add premiums for trees so close to properties.
Application to fell the tree completely.
Location: 26 Newton Way, Woolsthorpe By Colsterworth, Lincolnshire, NG33 5NR, None
SKDC Planning Permission
S23/1791 Installation of fixed-line broadband apparatus. The Old Stables 17B Back Lane, Colsterworth. None
S23/1308 Erection of single storey rear extension. Longlands House 45 Woolsthorpe Road, Woolsthorpe By Colsterworth Lincolnshire NG33 5NU None
LCC Planning Application
None
2023.115
Finance and Administration (F & A) Committee Report (Cllrs C Hainsworth, E O’Neill, L McShane & C Russell) Report 19/10/2023 Circulated.
1. Resolve to agree the 2024/2025 Budget.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Resolved to forward agenda to the December as correct Precept calculator not received and NALC Clerks pay award received today. The Clerks costs to be re-calculated using the NALC 2023 pay award.
2. Resolve to agree the 2024/2025 Precept Setting at £41,722 subject to receipt of the SKDC Precept Calculator for 2024/2025.
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Resolved to forward agenda to the December meeting in line with agenda item 2023.115.1. The deadline to submit the Precept request is Friday 19th January 2024.
Resolve to adopt the following policies for their annual review.
3. CAD Risk Management
4. CAD Scheme of Delegation
5. CAD Complaints Policy
6. CAD Planning Committee Protocol
7. CAD BCP Policy
8. CAD Data Protection Policy
9. CAD Data Breach Policy
10. CAD Data Retention Policy
11. CAD Subject Access Request Policy
It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved
Unanimously agreed with no amendments.
12. Net Position by Cost Centre and Code – 31/10/2023
Received by Cllrs with no comment.
2023.116 Planning Committee Report - No Committee Report.
1. Neighbourhood Plan Review update. (Cllr C Russell)
Editing in accordance with the SKDC Local Plan.
The East Mercia River Plan to be included in the plan.
The updated statistics from the census need to be incorporated into the Neighbourhood Plan.
Group Reports
2023.117 1 Highways & Footpaths Working Group Report (Cllr C Hainsworth) Ad-hoc report. Circulated
Issues on the High Street – deferred to Cllr C Vernon.
Costs for VAS at Stainby to be sought.
2023.118 2
2 Environment & Amenities Working Group Report.
War Memorial Restoration Project
War Memorial Project update (Cllr C Hainsworth & S Grant – Clerk) Circulated.
The outcome of any grant applications are unlikely to be received before the end of the year and with no meeting in January this will be presented to Council again at the February 2024 meeting
2023.119 2 ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT September 2023
Unanimously approved see Appendix A
2023.120 Matters requiring attention such as potholes and faulty streetlights.
Cllr R Chatterton will advise the Clerk of these issues at Stainby or FMS.
Cllr R Chatterton expressed an interest in becoming a CSW volunteer.
Flooding on the slip road from the A1. The Clerk to write to Highways with supporting photographs.
2023.121 The date of the next Parish Council meeting is Tuesday 5th December 2023. There being no other business, Chairperson C Hainsworth closed the meeting at 9.15pm.
SIGNED:
CHAIRPERSON DATE:
Attendance to date (May 2023 to April 2024) – annual maximum 10 (No meeting August & January)
Cllr Name Constituency Attended Apologies Absent
J Clark North Witham & Lobthorpe 2 4
D Bellamy North Witham & Lobthorpe 5 1
A Bouvie Colsterworth 4 2
E O’Neill Colsterworth 5 1
C Hainsworth Colsterworth 6
G Henton Colsterworth 5 1
L McShane Colsterworth 6
S Banwait Colsterworth
T Neale Colsterworth 4 1
C Russell Colsterworth 5 1
K Vickers * Co-opted 06/06/2023 Colsterworth 4 1
M Childs * Co-opted 04/07/2023 Colsterworth 3
C Rowland * Co-opted 05/09/2023 Colsterworth 3
R Chatterton * Co-opted October 2023 Gunby & Stainby 1
Vacancy Gunby & Stainby
APPENDIX A:
COLSTERWORTH AND DISTRICT PARISH COUNCIL
ACCOUNTS FOR PAYMENT OCTOBER 2023
ONLINE PAYMENTS
Date of pmnt Payee Name Details Amount
08/11/2023 Stuart Whitcombe InTouch Editing November edition £85.00
08/11/2023 Staff 2 & 3 Community Cleaning £607.94
09/11/2023 Life In Pictures In Touch Printing £417.60
09/11/2023 Colsterworth Methodist Church Room Hire x 8 Hrs £80.00
09/11/2023 Stuart Park Gate post repair Stamford Road allotment. £176.98
12/11/2023 Wicksteed Leisure Ltd Annual Play Area Inspection £421.74
12/11/2023 David Warden (MCS Groundcare) LCC & Village grass cut £442.00
13/11/2023 David Warden (MCS Groundcare) LCC & Village grass cut £559.00
13/11/2023 David Warden (MCS Groundcare) Village Maintenance FP 7, 15, 19 & 9 £330.00
Sub Total £3,120.26
CHEQUES
Chq 103927 Staff 1 salary Salary & Exp £1,114.76
Sub Total £1,114.76
Grand Total £4,235.02
DD's
27/10/2023 Focus Office phone £23.30
26/10/2023 HSBC Bank charges £6.20
£29.50
Balances
Reconciled
Income from 01/04/2023 £52,591.54
Expenditure from 01/04/2023 £30,591.66
Surplus/Deficit= £21,999.88
Less Unpresented payments excl DD's £4,235.02
Plus unpresented receipts £0.00
Surplus/Deficit= £17,764.86
Balances
04/10/2023 Deposit Account £61,354.20
31/10/2023 Community Account £23,900.50
Total £85,254.70
Less unpresented Payments & chq's + unpresented receipts £81,019.68