BACKGROUND: Northamptonshire Council (NNC) are considering a planning permission under reference NN/23/0006/WASFUL for a Proposed Anaerobic Digestion Plant, Associated Infrastructure, Lagoons and Feedstock Clamps at Rectory Farm, Luddington.
The application to North Northants for the AD plant has not yet been decided and the public can still comment on it. You can find details of the application on their website: https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/minerals-and-waste-planning/current-minerals-and-wasteplanning- applications The main part of the Anaerobic Digestion (or AD) plant would sit in North Northamptonshire, and their Council will make the decision on this. However, the gas pipe line and the National Transmission Service compound needed for the plant would be in Cambridgeshire and so in March 2024, the County Council granted permission for those minor parts of the development that would be located in the County – under planning permission reference CCC/23/125/FUL. CURRENT PLANNING APPLICATION: reference CCC/25/107/FUL A new planning application has been submitted to the County Council which seeks permission for a road to serve the AD plant which would link the B660 (Main Street, Great Gidding) to Hemington Lodge Road. The proposed road is needed to give better access to the AD plant, it would replace the existing junction and passing places are also proposed along Hemington Lodge Road. If the AD plant is approved there will need to be these road improvements. However, if the AD plant is not approved or not built then the proposed road will not be built. The County Council understands that an application has also been submitted to Northamptonshire for a very small part of the road that would sit in their area, that application is not yet valid and it will not appear on their public access system until it is. When considering CCC/25/107/FUL, the Council are only able to assess the impact of the part of the proposed new road that sits within the County and officers cannot consider the AD plant itself, or the traffic generated by the proposed plant or the traffic routing. Any comments on these matters should be submitted to North Northamptonshire Council, along with any other concerns that they may have about the AD plant. The comments from the County Council’s Highway Development Management team on the application for the road withing Cambridgeshire are available on our public access system: https://planning.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/online-applications/ Please direct any queries about the proposed road and highway improvements to planningdc@cambridgeshire.gov.uk and all other queries to North Northamptonshire Council.
Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on Tuesday 16th September 2025Present:CouncillorsHargrave,Nankivell, Downer, Bolton, Hodson and the Clerk 0055.25 Councillor Hargrave, welcomed those present to the meeting0056.25 To receive apologies and reasons for absenceCounty Cllr Gardener – another meetingDistrict Cllr Alban – at another meeting0057.25 There were no Member’s declaration of Disclosable Interests for items on the Agenda0058.25 No members of the Public & Press were present0059.25Minutes of the meeting held on 18th August 2025 were declared as a correct record byCllrs Hodson and Hargrave0060.25 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk.Clerk – District wide Parish Council meeting takes place on 1st October – Clerk + 2 x Councillors to attend.District Cllr Alban has offered to arrange a meeting with the Senior Planning Officer to discuss the Call for Sites and the Local Plan – responses requested.Cllrs Nankivell and Downer booked onto CAPALC training day at end of September.Cllr Downer – following the last meeting, he was able to advise that Minutes should be published within 30 days of the meeting, even if a draft copy.
Cllr Hargrave – the produce show was successful and well attended.Cllrs recommended that the organisers are encouraged to apply for Section 137 funding in advance of future Village Shows *** or explore the possibility of the Village Hall underwriting any loss. Ownership of the cups also needs clarifying and Clerk advised that a valuation should be obtained for the prizes/cups to ensure they are covered by insurance. Future events are a Macmillan coffee morning, Quiz night supper and Christmas event.Cllr Hargrave will include another reminder about dog fouling on the village newsletter as there has been an increase in incidents.0061.25 FINANCIAL MATTERS:a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank oParish Council (everyday) Account– balance as at 4/9/2025 £9961.55 (includes £500 bequest and £2500 grant)oParish Council Deposit Account – balance as at 4/9/2025£21755.36oDefibrillator account – balance as at 4/9/2025– £210.81b) PAYMENTS – to approve online payments in respect of the following *** Bradgate sent a statement regarding an outstanding payment from 2021 – Clerk advised that this invoice was paid at the time – Bradgate informed.
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
Staff costs
Wages for July (28 hours)
HMRC National Insurance
415.52
NIL
NIL
JRT
WEL Medical
PAID after August meeting
S137 funding
of replacement pads for defibrillator
132.25
N/A
R P Tree Care
PAID after August meeting
URGENTRemoval of vegetation at junction
250.00
NIL
Bradgate Maintenance
Grass cutting – invoice from 2021 ***
199.32 ***
Bradgate Maintenance
Grass cutting – invoice no 3207
253.03
210.86
c)Clerk’s working hours for August, 29hours was approved by Cllrs Bolton and Hargrave.d)PKF Littlejohn, external auditor, has confirmed Exemption in respect of the AGAR.e)SECTION 137 fund Softball group have confirmed their Constitution, bank account now set up – all criteria have been met and the payment of £800 will be made.0062.25PLANNING applications andmatters: a) There are no new applications for Parish Council decisions (as at 12th September).Tree works – reduction of elms and horsechestnut in vicinity of 23 Gaines Lane b) Neighbourhood Plan – Notices and website updated on 22nd August, paper copies made available to the public in all parishes.Meeting takes place on 20th September at 10.30 am in the Village Hallc) The Baptist Chapel – wall removed …. Conservation Area and Listed Building consent are required – nothing showing on Hunts DC website as at 12/9/2025– email sent to Conservation Officer on 5/8/2025, no response yet.Resident has sent a selection of photographs of the wall to show works carried out.District Cllr Alban advised …. Response from Senior Planning Officer (see email 27/8).Further groundworks have been carried out recently – Clerk requested that she be informed to enable further correspondence with Conservation Officer/Planning Dept.d) Resident shared her correspondence with HuntsDC regarding excessive number of disabled parking bays on Main Street0063.25 Village Maintenance –A)The Jitty – Milton Estates have been asked to cut back vegetation (later in the year), also to change the gate latch at Mill Road entrance to Footpath 6, and to cut down and cut back vegetation along Main Street.Also to cut back vegetation on both approaches to Little Gidding to allow clear view at the junction.B)Rec Field – it was agreed that a contractor should be asked to cut back the perimeter hedge.C)Grass cutting of the Rec Field – Bradgate had been seen cutting the area on the day of the meeting and will be reminded that the contract is for 12 cuts per year.Cllr Hodson suggested that at least 1/3 of the Rec Field should only be cut once a year as it is not in use and could save on costs.Area to be defined before the grass cutting contract is renewed.D)Junction of Hemington Lodge Road and Main Street – vegetation removed and sight line improved but village name sign with gate structure is part of the hazard.E)Clerk resubmitted Highways report regarding missing “Little Gidding” sign.0064.25 Allotments – Gidding Charity Trustees advise that rent will increase to £500 mainly because there has been a significant rise in water rates.After much discussion it was agreed to increase the annual rent to allotment holders by £5 to £30, and a review of the rent paid to the Charity in 2026 . Clerk will send out Annual Rent requests will be sent our prior to renewal date on 1st October, and allotment holders will be advised of the potential further increase in rents at 2026 renewal date.It was noted that two allotments had not been fully planted or well tended and the allotment holders will be contacted direct asking to consider giving up their tenancyDECISION to be reviewed in August 2026 – to accept rise in amount of annual rent for allotments.DECISION – to increase annual rent to allotment holders to £30 with effect from 1st October 2025.0065.25 Correspondence received since 18th August 2025 :a) NALC newsletters – dated Chief Executives Bulletin NALC events,b) Cambridgeshire County Council –Cambridgeshire Matters monthly edition for July, Traffic Management Centre incident report for roads (2 in Huntingdonshire during last month), Local Authority reorganisation – email dated 4/9/2025 forwarded to Cllrs prior to the meeting.Highways events during coming months – none locally,Community Food initiative small grants available in respect of food poverty,Local Highways Initiative – 2026/27 expression of interestThe Local Nature Recovery Strategy for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough regionInformation about replacement Highways asset management system, known as Aurora – clerk has attended online information session.ALSO system will be offline from 18th to 21st September.c) Huntingdonshire District Council – ·Town and Parish Council Newsletter (includes weekly food waste collection from April 2026), ·invitation to Annual Climate Conference takes place on Wednesday 5th November at Burgess Hall – looking for attendees and stall holders,·next CIL round funding starts 27th October for applications to be submitted,·online events to encourage residents to stand in May 2026 pollsd) Cambs &Pboro Combined Authority – monthly newsletter, includes busese) Cambs ACRE – AGM on 8th October 2.00 – 3.00PM, via ZOOMg) Parish Online monthly newsletter h) Windows 11 support ends on 14th October (before the next meeting) – email showing options – laptop is not suitable for upgrade – Clerk requests advice and Cllr Bolton advised that this should not affect future use.i) Cambs CC Highways advise Hemington Lodge Road will be closed on Sunday 5th October to allow UK Power Networks to replace a telegraph pole.ALSO B660 in Winwick will be closed from 20 October 2025 – approx 1 weekj) ELAN CITY advise that warranty on one of the units will expire in January 2026 – can be extended for 3 years – £199+VAT each year – it was agreed not to pursue the warranty.0066.25Items for next meeting:The next meeting will commence at 7.30pm on 21st October 2025in the Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding.
The Parish Council has published the October Newsletter which will be displayed on Noticeboards throughout the Parish and submitted via WhatsApp, Facebook and here on the Giddings website.
If you are aware of anyone in the parish who cannot access the noticeboards or the community social media platforms, please contact the Parish Council so a printed copy can be made available for them. If you would prefer to receive a copy of the monthly newsletter via email, please contact the Parish Council.
Present: Councillors Maciag, Hodson, Hargrave, Downer and the Clerk and 3 members of the public (LJ and SH, and PH)
043.25 Councillor Maciag, as Chairperson, welcomed those present to the meeting.
044.25 Apologies received from:
County Councillor Gardener – at another meeting
District Councillor Alban – at another meeting
Cllr Bolton – holiday
Cllr Nankivell – holiday
0045.25 There were no member’s declaration of Disclosable Interests for items on the Agenda
0046.25 2 x members of the Public (LJ and SH) were present in respect of the request for funding of the defibrillator (see 0052.25 below). 1 member of the Neighbourhood Plan team was present to update the Parish Council (see 0050.25b below)
0047.25 To confirm and accept minutes of the meeting held on 15th July 2025 including the amendment to Minutes submitted by Cllr Downer . Minutes were approved by Cllrs Hodson and Hargrave.
0048.25 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk.
District Councillor Alban had emailed to advise that the solar farm at Haddon had gone to Appeal and was refused. Nothing further heard from North Northants about the Anaerobic Digester unit.
Cllr Nankivel – written report submitted with an update about the softball team. Also a request via a resident to paint the exterior of the shipping container on the Rec Field – Councillors were in agreement but asked for a design/colour choice before work commences.
Cllr Hargrave, regarding the Village Hall committee
Games night, despite only 29 attending, went well.
Café at Open Studios was a financial success
Cllr Downer expressed thanks to the Committee.
Cllr Downer questioned the Clerk regarding the adding of Minutes to the village website and the Clerk will add them in the next week.
0049.25 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank
Parish Council (everyday) Account – balance as at 4/8/2025 £11168.15 (includes £500 bequest and £2500 grant)
Parish Council Deposit Account – balance as at 20/6/2025 £21755.36
Defibrillator account – balance as at 4/8/2025 – £210.81
b) PAYMENTS – the following online payments were approved.
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
Staff costs
Wages for June (32 hours) ***
Xxx
NIL
JRT
Information Commissioners Office
Annual subscription
52.00
NIL
JRT
Bradgate Maintenance
Grass cutting – invoice no 3113
253.03
42.17
*** Payslip was not available at the time of the meeting, but authorized up to £500.
c) Clerk’s working hours for July, a total of 28, were approved by Cllrs.
Payroll Services have confirmed that, due to a change in legislation, there are likely to be months when National Insurance payments are due on Clerk’s wages.
0050.25 PLANNING applications and matters:
a) There are no new applications, only a Biodiversity statement in respect of 41 Main Street (area planted is at Whitehall Farm, Steeple Gidding)
b) Neighbourhood Plan – update and public consultation. Paul Hargrave of the Neighbourhood Plan Group advised that the next stage of the project had been completed, the document had been sent out to 17 organisations as recommended by HuntsDC, and a further 62 copies has been sent out by email. Details had been shared on the village Facebook and WhatsApp sites, feedback can be made via the village website and there is a hard copy available in Winwick, Hamerton and Great Gidding (to view the Great Gidding copy please contact the Parish Clerk and it will be made available). An event will be held in the Village Hall on Saturday 20th September at 10.30am, when questions can be asked about the document.
Paul Hargrave left the meeting after giving his update.
c) The Baptist Chapel – wall removed …. Conservation Area and Listed Building consent are required – nothing showing on Hunts DC website as at 15/8/2025 – email sent to Conservation Officer on 5/8/2025, no response yet. A number of residents have also corresponded with Planning Dept of Hunts DC regarding this site. Clerk has advised District Cllr Alban of concerns regarding the development. Clerk has a potential pecuniary interest in respect of the developer and advised she should be excluded from correspondence regarding this site.
0051.25 Village Maintenance –
a) The Jitty – Milton Estates have been asked to cut back vegetation (later in the year), also to change the gate latch at Mill Road entrance to Footpath 6, and to cut down and cut back vegetation along Main Street.
b) Footpath No 6 – the landowner of the gate on Chapel End entrance and other gates and access has been asked to carry out works. Footpath Officer at CambsCC has been updated. The landowner has started to cut back vegetation. The gate onto Chapel End remains unchanged.
c) Footbridge over Alconbury Brook, Right of Way – email sent to Footpath Officer, with email from British Horse Society, online CambsCC report completed, several residents have telephoned/reported/emailed – work on bridge completed and email of thanks sent to the Footpath Officer and his team for bringing this to a speedy and satisfactory conclusion.
d) Noticeboard – quotes for both metal and wooden from 2 tradesmen were shared prior to the meeting. Proposed by Cllr Maciag and seconded by Cllr Hargrave
DECISION to appoint Ady Pendred to install a noticeboard.
e) Benches on Main Street – quote received. Proposed acceptance by Cllr Hodson and seconded by Cllr Hargrave
DECISION to appoint Karl Morgan to refurbish 2 x benches
f) Clerk carried out Risk Assessment of the Rec Field on 22nd July – elder bush on Winwick Road was trimmed back. Clerk will purchase a NO Dog sign for Winwick Road entrance gate.
g) Junction of Hemington Lodge Road and Main Street – concern regarding the vegetation within the fenced boundary of the pond creating traffic hazard – Clerk has asked contractor to survey work required and carry out ASAP.
0052.25 Request for S137 funding for defibrillator – completed application form received.
DECISION £125.30 will be granted – approved by Councillors Hargrave and Maciag.
As pads and batteries will require replacing/updating at regular intervals, fundraising activities will be carried out to cover expenditure
0053.25 Correspondence received since 15th July 2025 :
a) NALC newsletters – dated Chief Executives Bulletin NALC events,
b) Cambridgeshire County Council –Cambridgeshire Matters monthly edition for July, Traffic Management Centre incident report for roads (5 in Huntingdonshire during last month), Highways events during coming months – none locally, various emails about Public Rights of Way hierarchy survey, The Library Presents –Autumn 2025 brochure, Dr Bike sessions at various locations for bike checks, Flood and Water newsletter,
Food Waste volunteer required for each Parish in advance of introduction of weekly food collection.
Summer Holiday activities and food for children.
Local Highways Initiative – 2026/27 expression of interest
The Local Nature Recovery Strategy for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough region
c) Huntingdonshire District Council –
press release regarding Community Health and Wealth Building Fund
press release regarding Combat Fraud Team and their success
press release regarding Civil Parking Enforcement
d) Cambs &Pboro Combined Authority –
7 x new Tiger bus routes, 1 of which is Huntingdon to Cambridge
Monthly newsletter
e) via SLCC – update on Devolution – MP’s briefing for August
h) Parish Online monthly newsletter includes FREE gov.uk website.
0054.25 Items for next meeting:
The next meeting will commence at 7.30pm on 16th September 2025 in the Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding.
Village Hall payments for co-authorisation were approved by all
Present: Councillors Maciag, Hargrave, Bolton and Hodson, and the Clerk. Also County Councillor Gardener and 2 members of the public.
Agenda of the Annual Parish CouncilMeeting
To elect Parish Council Chairman
To elect Parish Council Vice Chairman
Completion of Acceptance of Office forms and Declarations of Disclosable Pecuniary Interests forms
There were no other nominations for Chairperson or Vice Chairperson. Cllrs Hodson and Bolton proposed and seconded the following:
Cllr Maciag as Chairperson
Cllr Hargrave as Vice Chairperson
0001.25 Cllr Maciag, as Chairperson, welcomed those present to the meeting
0002.25 Apologies and reasons for absence:
District Cllr Alban – at another meeting
0003.25 There were no Member’s declarations of Disclosable Interests for items on the Agenda
0004.25 2 x members of the public were present to find out more about Parish Council, with a view to becoming a Councillor.
0005.25 Minutes of the meeting held on 15th April 2025 were confirmed as a correct record by Councillors Maciag and Hargrave
0006.25 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk.
County Councillor Gardener:
He advised that the County Council was now Liberal Democrat controlled.
He had been re- elected and was now assigned to Highways/Planning/Staffing and Appeals and Fire Authority committees
The Local Government re-organisation is ongoing with the potential that all will be completed by 2028, with new unitary authorities in place by 2027. It is not known how boundaries will be redefined or if any changes will be made to election dates.
In response to the resident’s question regarding footpaths (at the Annual Parish Meeting), he will liaise with the Clerk and the Footpath Officer (Dan Wiggs) and Highways Officer (Sarah Budd) to assess these matters.
Councillor Gardener left to attend another meeting.
Cllr Hargrave:
The recent coffee morning had raised £476 for Dementia UK
Any items for the next newsletter are required by 27th May.
Cllr Hodson:
Soil improver for the allotments, delivered by Hunts DC, had been used within 48 hours and allotment holders are keen to receive a further supply. Clerk confirmed that she had made the request to Hunts DC, currently there is none available for delivery.
Clerk:
Notification of the resignation of Cllr Moody had been received, an email of thanks has been sent.
0007.25 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank
Parish Council (everyday) Account – balance as at 2/5/2025 £12572.23 (includes £500 bequest)
Parish Council Deposit Account – balance as at 2/5/2025 £ 21676.65
Defibrillator account – balance as at 2/5/2025 – £102.59
b) PAYMENTS – to approve online payments in respect of the following
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
Staff costs
Wages for March (27 hours)
Xxx
NIL
JRT
Ecclesiastical Insurance
Parish Council insurance ***
842.38
NIL
Viking
Office supplies and telephone/answer machine
161.96
26.99
*** Clerk had checked with insurers and has been advised that there is no cover for Data Protection and this type of cover is not available.
Clerk’s working hours for April, a total of 27, were approved by Cllrs Maciag and Hargrave
The Precept for 2025/26 of £11837 has been paid into the bank account
VAT refund paperwork completed and refund received – £158.91
AGAR (annual audit) paperwork had been shared prior to the meeting.
DECISION TO approve the AGAR documents for the 2024/25 financial year
Proposed and seconded by Cllrs Hargrave and Bolton.
AGAR signed by Parish Council Chairman and the Clerk.
Independent internal auditor to be appointed – Clerk had emailed CANALBS, but no response. She hopes to resolve this in the next few days.
0008.25 PLANNING applications and matters:
Application 25/00749 HHFUL The Mill, Mill Road, Great Gidding – render outbuilding, internal alterations and replacement windows and doors.
There were no objections to the changes proposed (Listed building and Conservation Area)
School site – Parish Council’s response to the Section 77 notice was sent on 17th April 2025. Nothing further has been heard.
CIL funding – Huntingdonshire District Council are inviting applications for funding. Clerk is uncertain of the process and will make enquiries with Planning Department.
0009.25 Recreation Ground – Cllr Hodson proposed that a gate be inserted at the opposite corner to the entrance gate, to enable safer walking to Kings Wood on Winwick Road.
0010.25 Village Maintenance – Cllr Hargrave and Clerk compiled a grant application in respect of a replacement noticeboard – a grant of £2500 has been awarded. Quotes will be obtained.
0011.25 Donations to Charities – Cllr Moody had written a policy document and submitted for consideration. Questions arose, the Clerk will check out details.
0012.25 Correspondence received since 15th April 2025 :
a) NALC newsletters – dated Chief Executives Bulletin NALC events,
b) Cambridgeshire County Council –Cambridgeshire Matters monthly edition, Traffic Management Centre incident report for roads (3 in Huntingdonshire during May), Highways events planned – none locally, Resurfacing of Bullock Road at Elton mid June.
Cambridge Flood and Water – advice on flooding and use of water.
c)Huntingdonshire District Council –
LOCAL PLAN – Additional Sites Land Availability Assessments will be available for you to view and comment between the following dates:
Start date: 23/04/25 10:00
End date: 04/06/25 23:59
Please select the following link to view this event:
PRESENT: Cllrs Maciag, Bolton, Downer, Nankivell, Hargrave and Hodson, County Councillor Gardener and 1 member of the public
0028.25 Cllr Maciag, as Chairperson, welcomed those present to the meeting
0029.25 To receive apologies and reasons for absence:
District Councillor Alban – at another meeting, he has sent a report
0030.25 Declarations of Disclosable Interests received from Cllr Nankivell for 0037.25
0031.25 Member of the public present in respect of 0037.25
0032.25 Minutes of the meeting held on 17th June 2025 were confirmed as a correct record by all Cllrs.
0033.25 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk.
County Councillor Gardener advised that the Combined Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Mayor will take on extra responsibilities, possibly from March 2026.
Community Right to Buy, in respect of Community Assets, will be implemented at the time of the Council re-organisation – further details to follow.
County Council voted for an 11% increase in Councillor allowances at a recent meeting.
Cllr Downer thanked County Cllr Gardener and his colleague Dan Wiggs for attending and advising on footpath issues in the Parish.
County Cllr Gardener left the meeting at 20.09 and will next attend in October.
Clerk read out District Councillor Alban’s report re Anaerobic Digester planning application, Hunts DC parking enforcement, Local Government re-organisation, proposed date of 10th September for Districtwide Parish Council meeting with a Highways Officer in attendance.
Cllr Nankivell had reported (via telephone) damage to Black Bridge leading to the Gallops – it has not been repaired yet. Clerk advised that the reporting page on the CambsCC website has recently been completely changed – she intends to check that all outstanding issues are still recorded correctly and will add a report for the bridge if this is not listed.
Cllr Bolton asked if an Adobe Acrobat subscription could be purchased as agenda and documents are not appearing in the correct order, when sent on by the Clerk – Clerk will try and find another means of sending the agenda and documents prior to a meeting.
Cllr Hargrave gave a report of recent Village Hall Committee events and actions –
a recent pop-up café was very successful.
The front door of the Village Hall was difficult to close in very hot weather – will be checked out.
25 people have booked for the upcoming Games Night.
Investigating a hearing loop or similar system, and the working of the PA system
Cllr Hodson thanked the Village Hall committee for their activities.
Cllr Hodson declared an interest as an allotment holder – he advised that Gidding Charity, as owner of the allotment site, had been in dispute with Anglian Water/WAVE regarding invoices for water usage. A formal complaint has been raised, but the outcome is awaited. If it is proved that the invoices are correct due to a considerable increase in water use, it may be that rental fee of the allotments to the Parish Council will increase.
Cllr Maciag – Neighbourhood Plan interim report was ready to share with residents, prior to its next submission to the District Council, and it was agreed that this should be shared via the village website and 3 copies printed. A printed copy will be available to view in Great Gidding, Winwick and Hamerton and arrangements made to view it.
0034.25 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank
a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank (not received as at 11/7/2025 – website check)
Parish Council (everyday) Account – balance as at 11/7/2025 £9838.83 (includes £500 bequest)
Parish Council Deposit Account (Business Premium Account interest rate reduced to 1.2% from 12/8/2025) – balance as at 20/6/2025 £21755.36
Defibrillator account – balance as at 2/6/2025 – £102.96
b) PAYMENTS – approved by Cllrs Hodson and Maciag
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
Staff costs
Wages for MAY(36 hours)
Xxx
NIL
JRT
Catalyst
Website hosting
322.11
NIL
Bradgate Maintenance
Invoice no 3018
210.86
42.17
Milton Estates (Peterborough)
Invoice for access route to Rec. Field
1.00
NIL
Section 137 request
Payment at a future meeting
Clerk’s working hours for JUNE – a total of 32, approved by Cllrs Hargrave and Hodson.
Review of Financial Regulations – it was agreed that no further amendments were required.
Review of Standing Orders – it was agreed that no amendments were required.
0036.25 PLANNING applications and matters:
There are no new applications (as at 11/7/2025)
0037.25 Section 137 funding request in respect of softball team.
Member of the public confirmed that insurance was in place for the group, a constitution was being devised and a bank account applied for. 25 regular attendees, most of those from the village.
Cllr Hodson requested the constitution include a clause to state that all equipment and assets will be transferred to the Village Hall should the venture discontinue. Also some of the items listed in the budget are day to day expenses and will not be included as part of the Section 137 grant.
Cllr Hargrave proposed that the group be supported in principle and seconded Cllr Hodson’s proposal to donate £800 to enable the group to set up.
DECISION to grant £800 to softball team – proposed by Cllr Hodson and seconded by Cllr Hargrave
0038.25 Village Maintenance – Clerk and Councillor Downer met with Dan Wiggs, Footpath Officer for CambsCC and Cllr Ian Gardener – discussion of Footpath No 6 (Mill Road to Chapel End) and The Jitty. The surface of the Jitty has since been swept since that meeting. Mr Weekes is to supply a definitive border of what is Highways responsibility and neighbouring landowner responsibility in respect of the Jitty. Clerk will write to landowners regarding specific issues and copy in Mr Weekes and Cllr Gardener.
Cllr Downer submitted the following amendment to this agenda item, to be approved at the meeting held on 19th August 2025:
I believe that in respect of minute 0038.25 the following should be recorded:
The CCC Fotpath Oficer has undertaken to contact the Landowner regarding the fallen tree blocking the pedestrian gate on Footpath 6.
The CC Footpath Officer has undertaken to contact the Landowner regarding replacing the gate, at the Chapel End of Footpath 6, with a more accessible one.
Councilor Gardener has recommended that GGPC write to the Landowner of the small gate, at the Mill Road End of Footpath 6, and ask the they replace the rope used to secure the gate with a removable chain.
Councilor Gardener has recommended that GGPC write to the Landowners of land on Footpath 6 seeking their permission for the overgrown vegetation impeding access, to be cut back.
Noticeboard – quotes are being sought for the board + installation. Hunts DC have paid the grant monies and have supplied a logo for inclusion on the board.
0039.25 A recent email from CAPALC outlined the requirement for changes to Parish Council IT provision – dedicated email addresses (.gov.uk) for Clerk, councillors, use of gov.uk website etc. The email had been shared with Councillors prior to the meeting and, it was agreed that, until more is known about the reorganisation of Councils, it would be preferable to wait to see what requirements came from that exercise that may impact on parish councils, their IT requirements and not to incur additional expense etc.
0040.25Hunts DC survey on reorganisation proposals – Cllr Hodson had completed the survey and felt that the questions were tailored for responses from individuals. The Clerk has completed the form.
0041.25 Correspondence received since 17th June 2025 :
a) NALC newsletters – dated Chief Executives Bulletin NALC events,
b) Cambridgeshire County Council –Cambridgeshire Matters monthly edition for May, Traffic Management Centre incident report for roads (5 in Huntingdonshire during last month), Highways events planned – none locally, various emails about Public Rights of Way hierarchy survey,
Food Waste volunteer required for each Parish in advance of introduction of weekly food collection.
Summer Holiday activities and food for children.
c)Huntingdonshire District Council – offer their Pest Control Maintenance services, Town and Parish Council newsletter for June, Road Closures in July – various in Huntingdon, nothing locally, Water system management event on 10th July,
PRESS RELEASES:
Civil Parking enforcement starts 28th July
Digital screens in local towns
Great Ouse valley Trust – study to explore landscape designation benefits
Waste Education newsletter – includes information about workshops and visits
Redevelopment of Hinchingbrooke Park – plans approved
Update on Net Zero Villages – Great Staughton Village Hall project
d) CAPALC – nothing received, their website is still inactive
e) Cambs Acre – Staying in Touch newsletter for June, invitation to Rural Housing event
f) Combined Authority Cambridgeshire and Peterborough/Greater Cambridge Partnership – new TIGER bus routes announced – around Cambridge and Newmarket
g) Huntingdonshire Community Policing meetings – invitations to join online meetings on 24/9 and 15/12, both at 7pm.
h) Parish Online monthly newsletter
0042.25 Items for next meeting:
Neighbourhood Plan revised document – feedback and comments
The next meeting will commence at 7.30pm on 19th August 2025 in the Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding.
Village Hall payments for co-authorisation were approved by all:
PRESENT: Cllrs Maciag, Hargrave, Hodson, Bolton and the Clerk. Also 2 members of the Public
0014.25 Cllr Maciag, as Chairperson, welcomed those present to the meeting
0015.25 To receive apologies and reasons for absence:
District Councillor Alban – at another meeting
County Councillor Gardener – at another meeting
0016.25 There were no declarations of Disclosable Interests for items on the Agenda
0017.25 There was no Public & Press participation – members of the public were present to be considered for co-option as Parish Councillors
0018.25 Minutes of the meeting held on 20th May 2025 were confirmed as a correct record by Cllrs Bolton and Hargrave.
0019.25 Completed Co-option forms had been received and accepted. Cllr Hodson and Cllr Hargrave proposed and seconded Richard Downer and Melanie Nankivel as Parish Councillors. Acceptance of Office forms were completed.
0020.25 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk.
Clerk – email from HuntsDC outlining options for local Council reorganisation, 3 schemes are being considered, further details will be shared with Councillors over the coming weeks.
Clerk- our insurers no longer offer Data Protection cover, Clerk had confirmation from CAPALC on the day of the meeting that they could add DP cover to the annual subscription at a cost of £50 – it was agreed that this amount could be included with this month’s batch of payments.
There were no reports from Councillors
0021.25 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Bank statements from Barclays Bank
Parish Council (everyday) Account – balance as at 2/6/2025 £11045.30 (includes £500 bequest)
Parish Council Deposit Account (Business Premium Account interest rate reduced to 1.2% from 12/8/2025) – balance as at 2/6/2025 £21755.36
Defibrillator account – balance as at 2/6/2025 – £102.96
b) PAYMENTS – approved by Cllrs Hodson and Maciag
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
Staff costs
Wages for April (27 hours)
xxx
NIL
JRT
JRB Enterprises
Dog waste bags
110.52
18.42
Bradgate Grounds Maintenance
Invoice no 2852 + 2934
253.03 + 253.03 (506.06)
42.17 + 42.17 (84.34)
Milton Estates (Peterborough)
Invoice for access route to Rec. Field
1.00
NIL
LGS services
Internal Auditor report
126.00
21.00
CAPALC
Data Protection cover (added 17/6/2025)
50.00
NIL
Clerk’s working hours for May, approved by Cllrs Hodson and Maciag as a total of 36.
Budget for 2025/26 – Cllr Hodson had shared a document prior to the meeting and explained the budget headings, proposed budget spending and allocated reserves. All present agreed to the budget.
Our Internal Auditor has been taken ill and LGS Services have been appointed to undertake this year’s internal audit.
The AGAR was published on the village website and noticeboard at the Village Hall on 30th May, in accordance with the requirement for Public Rights, which extends to 14th July
The Internal Auditor’s report and recommendations had been received. There was an error on the AGAR paperwork due to oversight on a spreadsheet formula, this has been corrected and a revised Form 2 (page 3 of 6) had been completed and authorised at the meeting. Other changes to procedure were recommended and will be implemented.
0022.25 PLANNING applications and matters:
Purpose built agricultural building installed at Gidding Grove Farm – Planning Dept have not consulted for comment.
CIL funding – Huntingdonshire District Council are inviting applications for funding. Clerk has requested advice from “Implementation Team” at Hunts DC regarding CIL funds that might be due to our Parish in respect of recent developments. The response from Hunts DC was shared at the meeting and at present there is no CIL due to the Parish.
0023.25 Review of Parish Council Asset Register – the document was shared at the meeting and no changes were required.
0024.25 Village Maintenance – Clerk to meet with Dan Wiggs, Footpath Officer for CambsCC and Cllr Ian Gardener and discuss and view the issues regarding footpaths in the parish.
Cllr Downer asked to be present as he has concerns about Footpath No 6. Cllr Hargrave mentioned The Jitty (Footpath No 5) surface – both have been reported.
Noticeboard – quotes are being sought for the board + installation
0025.25 Donations to Charities – Clerk had researched the possibilities within Section 137. Cllr Hargrave proposed that any grant should be restricted to any group or activity within the Parish of Great and Little Gidding, this was seconded by Cllr Hodson
DECISION – future applications for a Grant or Loan will be restricted to any group or activity based within the parish of Great and Little Gidding, and will be subject to completion of an application form to be presented to the Parish Council.
0026.25Review of information sharing options, particularly social media.
Currently information is shared by the Parish Council via the noticeboard at the Village Hall, thegiddings.org website and occasional newsletters (also available via website and noticeboard and on request from the Parish Office). There are independently organised WhatsApp and Facebook platforms for the village. The administrator of the WhatsApp page will be asked to post events and notices for the Parish Council and Village Hall and/or to direct people to the website and noticeboard. Facebook will not be used.
0027.25 Correspondence received since 20 th May 2025 :
a) NALC newsletters – dated Chief Executives Bulletin NALC events,
b) Cambridgeshire County Council –Cambridgeshire Matters monthly edition for May, Traffic Management Centre incident report for roads (5 in Huntingdonshire during last month), Highways events planned – none locally, various emails about Public Rights of Way hierarchy survey,
c)Huntingdonshire District Council – offer their Pest Control Maintenance service, Press release – St Neots Whist Club, Town and Parish Council newsletter, Road Closures in July – Time Trial for cyclists around Upton area,
d) CAPALC – nothing received, their website is still inactive
e) Cambs Acre – Staying in Touch newsletter for June
f) CPRE spring newsletter available
g) Combined Authority Cambridgeshire and Peterborough/Greater Cambridge Partnership – new TIGER bus routes announced – around Cambridge and Newmarket
h) Huntingdonshire Community Policing meetings – invitations to join online meetings on 24/9 and 15/12, both at 7pm.
j) Upton and Coppingford Parish Council are looking for a Parish Clerk, as are Northstowe.
k) Barclays Bank – we are offered the opportunity to have a Select Cashback credit card. Village Hall committee will be informed and make their own arrangement if required.
l) Parish Online monthly newsletter
m) email from Sarah Marsh of Connecting Cambridge, + response from resident (SB) – Clerk has sent an email of thanks and await developments.
0028.25 Items for next meeting:
Requirement to implement IT Policy
Review of Standing Orders
Review of Financial Regulations
Review of Risk Assessment
The next meeting will commence at 7.30pm on 15th July 2025 in the Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding.
Village Hall payments were approved by Cllrs Bolton and Maciag
The Parish Council has published the August Newsletter which will be displayed on Noticeboards throughout the Parish and submitted via WhatsApp, Facebook and here on the Giddings website.
If you are aware of anyone in the parish who cannot access the noticeboards or the community social media platforms, please contact the Parish Council so a printed copy can be made available for them. If you would prefer to receive a copy of the monthly newsletter via email, please contact the Parish Council.
