Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 21st January 2014

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 21st January 2014 at 7.30pm.

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (chairman), Hodson, Hayden, Howden, Giddens, Trolove and clerk

247.14 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr James and County Cllr Bywater

248.14 Minutes of 17th December 2013 were agreed and signed

249.14 Matters arising (information only)

250.14 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

251.14 County and District Cllr report/update – an email update had been received from County Cllr Bywater and circulated.

252.14 AON insurance – a letter had been received asking the Parish Council to check the policy schedule for any amendments.   It was agreed to add the new play equipment.

253.14 Grass cutting contract – the 3 year contract had been received and it was agreed to give authority to Cllr Alexander to sign once amendments had been made – an option for 14 cuts if required at the same fixed price per cut.

254.14 Cambridgeshire Future Transport consultation – 16 completed forms had been received at the PC office and forwarded to the County Council

255.14 Resiting of benches at Recreation Ground – next agenda

256.14 Siting of Fields in Trust Memorial Plaque – it was agreed that Cllr Trolove would concrete the new plaque into the ground at the entrance to the field on Winwick Road.

257.14 Meeting dates, date for annual Parish Meeting and Trustees meeting.   It was agreed to continue the monthly meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of the month.   A date for the Parish meeting and Trustees meeting to be set at the next PC meeting

258.14 48 Main Street access – the developer who has bought this property has asked to speak to the trustees of the Village Hall.   It was agreed to invite them to attend prior to the February Parish Council meeting.

259.14 Representative reports

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens reported no known issues

Tree Warden and Jubilee Wood – Cllr Trolove agreed to arrange an evening in March for a midweek work party to trim up some of the vegetation in the wood.   He would also provide guidance for those who could not attend but wished to contribute at another date.

Highways & Police – Cllr James had sent an email update and our PCSO would be attending the June meeting

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson reported that a cheque had been issued for the play equipment invoice £2,397.60 (inc VAT) as previously agreed.   The VAT return was being completed and payment should be received before the end of the financial year.

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden reported that the skip had been removed from the Recreation Field.   The village hall clock is to be checked to see if it can be repaired – connected to the electricity.

Allotments – Cllr Howden reported little activity due to the wet conditions.

Community Liaison – Cllr Alexander had not received any other news.

 

260.14 Anglian Water – Allotments payment by direct debit.   It was agreed to apply to make payments by direct debit – clerk to arrange paperwork.

 

261.14 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                            £298.68

S Dalley (postage 12 x 2nd class stamps)                         £6.00

S Dalley (copier paper)                                                           £3.00

Anglian Water (allotments)                                                  £32.85 (Charity)

262.14 Clerks contract of employment – the clerk informed the meeting of her intention to give notice.   The contract states one month to be given but a 3 month period was agreed to give time for advertising, interview and handover.

263.14 Planning – no plans had been received

264.14 Correspondence received

.Letter from PCC thanking the Parish Council for the S137 grant of £200 towards churchyard grass cutting

.Sawtry Eye – email had been received from CARESCO informing the Parish Council that arrangements had been made for the Sawtry Eye to now include The Giddings.   Volunteers had come forward to deliver the publication.

Annual General Meeting

Annual General Meeting

The present committee will not be seeking re election. Therefore a new management  committee must be found or the Village Hall may have to close until a way forward is found.

The Village Hall has been thoroughly modernised internally and is a very useful meeting space or event function location.

The Recreation Field is a valued asset and has just been awarded Fields In Trust status.

If you would like to help then please attend the next committee meeting or the May 12th AGM.

 

 

 

Annual General Meeting date fixed

Monday 12th May from 7.30pm

 

Parishioners are welcome to attend all meetings which are usually held in one of the side rooms of the Village Hall. Start time 7.30pm

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 19th November 2013

GREAT & LITTLE GIDDING PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding Huntingdon PE28 5NU

Tel 01832 293068-www-thegiddings.org.uk email: giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 19th November 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present:   Cllrs Alexander, Hodson, Howden, James, Trolove, Giddens, District Cllrs Tuplin, Tysoe and clerk.

 

Public Forum – Prior to the meeting a Neighbourhood Watch presentation had been given and 6 members of the public had attended

 

203.13 Apologies for absence were received from County Cllr Bywater and Cllr Hayden

204.13 Minutes of the meeting held on 15th October 2013 were agreed and signed

205.13 Matters arising (information only)

206.13 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

207.13 Community Pay Back work on path to pond dipping platform and village pound – Cllr James had met with the  supervisor and the team had carried out a good job clearing the path and cutting back saplings in the area of the pound.  They are willing to come back to lay new bark chippings on the path and offered to paint the fence around the pond and would also consider further work.   Cllr Alexander agreed to obtain prices for the bark and paint.

208.13 Hunts Forum of voluntary organisations recognition awards 2013 –Cllr Hodson had been nominated but no results had been received

209.13 History Society request for loan to fund reprint of Village History book – It was agreed that the Parish Council could not make a loan for this project but would consider further proposals should they be put forward.

210.13 Installation of replacement and new equipment at Recreation Ground – Cllr James reported that work to install the equipment was due in the first week of December.

211.13 Risk Management Review amendments by Cllr Howden had been incorporated and the review agreed

212.13 Lone working risk assessment – Cllr Alexander referred to January agenda

213.13 Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)- Meaningful Proportion response form was completed and signed by Cllr Alexander

214.13 Polling District Review 2013 Huntingdonshire District Council – no observations put forward

215.13 Recreation Ground – removal of pavilion and skip hire. Three quotes had been received and it was agreed to accept the quote from Woodford of £160 + VAT.   Clerk had checked that glass, roofing felt, wood and plastic sheeting were all acceptable.   It was agreed that Cllr Trolove would liaise directly with the skip hire company when he was ready to take down the pavilion.   The two benches in the pavilion are to be removed and placed in the metal container – decision on resiting of benches on next agenda.   The water connection to the pavilion would also need cutting off.

216.13 Village maintenance – litter collection at recreation ground.   The two bins at the entrance to the recreation ground are not being emptied by HDC.   District Cllr Tysoe agreed to investigate this on our behalf to see if they should be emptied or alternative arrangements could be made.

217.13 Local Highway Improvement Initiative 2014/15 (application by 9th December).   It was agreed that there was no project already identified for which this funding could be applied for.

218.13 Grass cutting contract – review for 2014.   A quote had been requested from the existing contractors but had not arrived in time for the meeting

219.13 Cambridgeshire Future Transport meeting 7th Nov – Cllr James had attended the meeting and reported that a questionnaire is to be circulated and drop in events planned to consult with as many people as possible over the future of local buses

220.13 Anglian Water – paying bills by Direct Debit.   It was agreed to pay the water bill for the Recreation Ground by Direct Debit – form completed and signed by Cllr Alexander

221.13 Parish Precept – Parish Council expenditure 2014/15 (return by 20th December).   Cllr Hodson had produced a draft budget which was then discussed, amended and agreed.   The amount requested £10, 835 – no increase on the last two years

222.13 County & District Cllrs update- County Cllr Bywater had sent an email update which had been circulated.   District Cllr Tysoe reported on the strategic review to save more money at the District Council.

223.13 Reports of Cllr Responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens had attended a Parish Paths meeting prior to this meeting which had been a useful forum with suggestions for advertising ROW on websites and meetings with Highways officers at local libraries.   Bridlepath No 2 is to receive a covering of road planings and the Black Bridge has been  repaired

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – Cllr Trolove reported that the HDC offer of trees would not be taken up this year.   It was noted that another tree had been felled at the school.

Highways & Police – Cllr James had organised the Neighbourhood Watch presentation prior to the meeting and it was hoped that some members of the public may take up this initiative.   ECOPs had been replaced by Parish Alert which gives individuals email contact to receive updates.

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had reported on the budget previously and there were no charity updates

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden had received the new Fields in Trust plaque which would now need to be discussed for agreement on siting at the next meeting.

Allotments – A half plot is to become available in the spring and this would then be re-allocated.

Community Liaison – Cllr Alexander reported that the property to the rear of the village hall was for sale and it was noted that the access to this is the grass strip to the side of the car park.

224 .13 Planning – Application 1301716LBC restoration of external walls, Crown Cottage, 36 Main Street – recommend approval

Notification of allocation of addresses to two new dwellings on redeveloped site, following demolition of redundant agricultural buildings adjacent Laurel Farm – noted

225 .13 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £298.68

S Dalley postage                                                                     £6.00

CGM grasscutting October                                                   £90.27

St Michael’s Parochial Church Council S137                    £200.00

Village Hall (History Society meetings) S137                   £100.00

226.13 Correspondence received

. AON policy guidelines re Snow Clearance, Salting and Gritting – noted

. Huntingdonshire Parish Conference – Communities First, Tuesday 3rd December 1-4.30pm – clerk attending

. War Memorials Trust – Call to remember: does anyone care about your local war memorial?   The war memorial in the village is on the wall in the church and it was agreed to consider funding a wreath for the memorial at Remembrance 2014.

. Cambridgeshire Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) – noted

. Huntingdonshire Environmental Capacity Study: Additional site assessments -noted

. CARESCO – Christmas Day lunch – it was agreed to advertise this

 

227.13 Parish Council corporate responsibilities.   This forms part of the Risk Assessment which is reviewed annually and part of the internal audit.   It was agreed that current procedures are adequate with the additional back up of hard copies of bank statements available in the office.

Clarion October 2013

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – need you

The Parish Council are Trustees of the Village Hall and Recreation Ground but the day to day running is the responsibility of the management committee made up of volunteers from the village and 2 parish councillors.  In 2014 the existing committee of 3 (Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary) who have served for 5 years will be standing down.   The hall has been refurbished to an excellent standard and now needs maintaining for everyone to enjoy this great village facility.   The Recreation Ground is also in good condition with the Parish Council employing the grass cutting contractor, paying the water bill and insuring the play equipment.   Without volunteers all this hard work will go to waste so please give this some thought, get together with some friends and have some fun while helping the community.

Contact Paul Hodson, Chris Howden or Julie Trolove who will give you all the help you need to get started.   They meet on the second Monday of the month in the village hall at 7pm – why not go along for a chat.

Recreation Ground – The Parish Council have been successful in obtaining a grant from Huntingdonshire District Council Community Chest Fund of £1,851 to improve the play equipment. The Parish Council have added to this the £119.85 received from the clothes recycling bank and £114.66 left over from the Diamond Jubilee allocation.   Cllr Lydia James is now sourcing quotes for equipment to achieve best value for money and community benefit.

Pavilion – Recreation Ground – The management committee have recommended to the Parish Council that the pavilion is no longer fit for use and should be removed from the site.   The Parish Council support this recommendation and will be looking at how best to remove/dispose of the pavilion.

Post Office mobile service – if you would like to give customer feedback on this service please contact customercare@postoffice.co.uk or Tel 0845 722 33 44 quoting branch number 719230.

Community Pay Back – the Parish Council are liaising with the Community Pay Back team to have a working party to help clear the path to the dipping platform at the pond in Main Street and to clear the undergrowth from the ‘village pound’ opposite the pond on Main Street.

Funding – The Parish Council allocate a sum of money each year which can be used to support groups and activities within the village.   It must be in the interest of or will directly benefit the area or its inhabitants.   If you have an idea or suggestion that could be considered under this heading then please contact the Parish Council.  

Council for the Protection of Rural England has launched its new Save Our Countryside Charter – to find our more go to www.saveourcountryside.org.uk

Allotments These are situated off Mill Road at the entrance to the Millennium Wood for the use of parishioners.   The annual rent is £20 for a whole plot and £10 for a half plot.   If you are interested in a full or half plot when one becomes available, please get in touch with the Parish Council.

Potholes – to report potholes and other highway faults (inc pavements) contact Cambridgeshire County Council telephone 0345 045 5212 or use the website report system at www.cambridgshire.go.uk/transport/roads/reportingafault.htm     They need information on where the problems are and your input would help them. Using this system records the issue directly on to their database and allows officers to concentrate on resolving issues.

You choose how to spend county council budget- You choose is a county-wide survey to ask residents to put themselves in the seat of councillors in making decisions where to invest and save money. If people are unable to complete the web survey at http://www.youchoose.yougov.com/Cambridgeshire<http://www.youchoose.yougov.com/Cambridgeshire%20> comments can be sent to: Research & Performance Team: Budget Consultation, SH1306 Shire Hall, Castle Hill, Cambridge CB3 0AP

Broadband – Find out more about Connecting Cambridgeshire roll-out plans and register for updates at: www.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk or call 0345 045 5200

Crime – non emergency call 101 as all information, however minor, is helpful to the police.                          For emergencies, when you require immediate assistance, dial 999                                                                      By registering with eCops you receive news and appeals, local crime information and crime prevention advice – direct to you as an e-mail.   The service is completely free and works alongside Neighbourhood Watch, to bring you messages about your local area.   It also allows you to feedback information to your local policing team, to help them police your neighbourhood effectively – www.ecops.org.uk         Smartwater is a colourless liquid containing a unique chemical ‘code’ that glows under ultra violet light making it easy for the police to detect and identify.   The Parish Council will be using smartwater to mark items – look out for the stickers around the village.                                         

Community services –   A prescription service is provided from Wellside Surgery, who will deliver your medication for you to collect from the village shop.    Mobile Library Route H18, visits 3rd Thursday every month 12.40 – 1pm, Recreation Ground entrance, Winwick Road.     Mobile Post Office visits Monday     9.30 – 11.30, Tue, Wed, Thu and Fri 9.30 – 11am (excluding bank holidays), Chapel End

Parish Councillors


Andrew Alexander (Chairman)          62 Main Street                                              293315                    Robin Hayden                                    Warren House, Main Street                                                293360                       Paul Hodson                                      17 Chapel End                                                                        293782                      Chris Howden                                     9 Main Street                                                                        293679                  Rachel Giddens                                  47 Main Street                                                                      293277               Michael Trolove                                 87 Main Street                                                                     293591                     Lydia James (Vice Chairman)               Manor Farmhouse                                                       07962099922

District Councillor Darren Tysoe  darren.tysoe@huntingdonshire.gov.uk            01480388310  District Councillor Dick Tuplin         dick.tuplin@huntingdonshire.gov.uk                          01487 834156 County Councillor Simon Bywater simon.bywater@cambridgeshire.gov.uk                     07984637553

 

Parish Council office is situated in the village hall and open Mon and Thu 12 – 2pm           telephone 293068 (answerphone out of hours) or email giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Parish Council meetings are held in the village hall at 7.30pm, usually on the third Tuesday of the month and you are welcome to come along – please check the noticeboard for details.

Prior to the meeting on 19th November there will be a presentation about Neighbourhood Watch by Brian Wilson from the Community Safety Team Cambs Constabulary at 7pm – All welcome

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 15th October 2013

GREAT & LITTLE GIDDING PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding Huntingdon PE28 5NU

Tel 01832 293068-www-thegiddings.org.uk email: giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 15th October 2013 at 7.30pm.

 

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (chairman), James (vice-chairman), Hodson, Giddens, Trolove, County Cllr Bywater, District Cllr Tuplin and clerk

 

182.13 Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Hayden and Howden

183.13 Minutes of 17th September 2013 were approved and signed

184.13 Matters arising (information only)

185.13 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – Cllr Giddens 200.13

 

186.13 Notice of completion of External Audit – clear audit returned and notice of completion of audit had been displayed.   Agreed to pay invoice of £120

187.13 Parochial Church Council request for financial contribution towards grass cutting.   This was discussed and a vote taken – 4 for and 1 against proposal to donate £200 – carried.

188.13 History Society request to fund the hire of village hall for meetings 2013/14.   This was discussed and agreed that £100 be donated to fund the use of the village hall for meetings

189.13 Quotes for replacement and new equipment for Recreation Ground – Cllr James had received 3 quotes and it was agreed to accept Fenland Leisure Products quote of £1,998.00

190.13 Risk Management Review amendments – Cllr Howden had produced amendments which the clerk would incorporate and circulate to members.

191.13 Lone working risk assessment – Cllr Alexander went through the checklist which he will write up and it was agreed that this should be checked quarterly.

192.13 Mobile Post Office service customer care reply 25th September re dates the service had not been provided – this was noted and clerk to send a copy to Andy Hebb for information

193.13 Neighbourhood Watch – Cllr James had organised for a presentation to take place at 7pm prior to the Parish Council meeting on 19th November.   Notification of this has been put in the Clarion.

194.13 Recreation Ground – removal of pavilion.  Cllr Trolove agreed to assist in the demolition of the structure.   Clerk had obtained cost of 8yd skip hire £160 + VAT but needs to confirm that roofing felt, glass, wood and plastic sheeting were all acceptable.

195.13 Village maintenance – it had been reported that the hedge behind the public bench at the crossroads was now overhanging the bench – it was noted that the hedge is the adjacent property holders responsibility and a letter had been sent to the owner.

196.13 Society of Local Council clerks membership renewal -£86.   The clerk attended branch meetings and local training and it was agreed to pay the annual subscription

197.13 Grass cutting contract – review for 2014.  This was the second year CGM had cut the grass and it was agreed to ask them to quote again and also for a 3 year contract.

198.13 County & District Cllrs update- County Cllr Bywater reported on the proposed seminar days for Parish Councillors by the County Council and the monthly CC email updates.   District Cllr Tuplin reported on Alconbury Weald developments.

 

199.13 Reports of Cllr Responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens agreed to attend the County Council Parish Paths meeting on 19th November

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – Cllr Trolove agreed to consider the District Council offer of trees for the parish

Highways & Police – Cllr James had applied smartwater to Parish Council equipment and the clerk had submitted the paperwork.

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had produced a 2014 draft budget plan for discussion at the November meeting.

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Hodson reported that Sawtry Colts did not have a requirement to use the ground at present and this would therefore reflect on the income.

Allotments – Cllr Hodson reported no known problems

Community Liaison – Cllr Alexander had received enquiries about the lighting of bonfires but this had been taken up by individuals concerned

 

200 .13 Planning –

Application 1301393LBC replacement windows Thatched Cottage, 33 Chapel End. – No objections

Application 1301431FUL erection of single detached dwelling and associated car port (revised application to replace extant permission ref 1101000REP for erection of 2 dwelling houses) land at 23 Gains Lane. – No objections

Notification of allocation of address to new property adjacent to 47 Main Street – Corral Cottage, 49 Main Street – noted

201.13 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £298.68

S Dalley (clerk) back payment                                            £17.88

CGM grasscutting September                                            £180.53

PKF Littlejohn   external audit                                           £120.00

Anglian Water (Recreation Ground)                                    £82.75

Anglian Water (Allotments)                                                 £26.35 (Charity)

SLCC membership renewal                                                  £86.00

 

202.13 Correspondence received

.   Cambridgeshire Police and Crime Commissioner – launch of Neighbourhood Alert

.   Victim Support request for donation – agreed not to support at this time.

.   Luminus Grant Scheme – Cllr James agreed to look at the requirements for applying.

.   Hunts Forum of Voluntary Organisations Volunteer Awards 2013 – It was agreed to nominate Cllr Hodson for all his work as a councillor and on the Village Hall & Recreation Ground committee.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 17th September 2013

GREAT & LITTLE GIDDING PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding Huntingdon PE28 5NU

Tel 01832 293068-www-thegiddings.org.uk email: giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 17th September 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (chairman), James (vice-chairman), Hayden, Hodson, Howden, Trolove, District Cllr Tysoe and clerk

161.13 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Giddens and County Cllr Bywater

162.13 Minutes of 20th August 2013 were approved and signed

163.13 Matters arising (information only)

164.13 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

165.13 Parochial Church Council request for contribution towards churchyard grass cutting – paperwork to accompany request had not been received and therefore could not be considered.

166.13 HDC community chest fund for equipment on Recreation Ground – it was agreed to provide a static scooter and octopus seesaw plus replace the wobble board and stepping stones, Cllr James had received one quote and another two to be requested.

167.13 Risk management review – Cllr Howden to forward amendments for next meeting

168.13 Lone Working Risk Assessment – Cllr Alexander to complete assessment

169.13 Speeding traffic on Main Street – an email had been received from the school re parent complaints about speeding vehicles – clerk to advise school to refer complaints to the Neighbourhood Policing Team.

170.13 Highway maintenance update – Cllr Alexander had met with Mr Smith, Highways Dept who explained the new procedures to inspect quality of work for road repairs.

171.13 Village maintenance – path to dipping platform and clearance of ‘the pound’ by Community Pay Back Scheme.   The Offender Manager had visited both sites and agreed that the work was suitable for the scheme.   They would not be able to take away the vegetation but it was agreed that it be left on the verge by the pound and Cllr Trolove would arrange clearance.   A key to the village hall would need to be given to the Foreman on the day to access toilet facilities.

172.13 Mobile Post Office reliability of service.   An email had been received from the Post Office explaining the reason for the recent unreliability of the service.   It was agreed to forward the list of dates when the service had not been present in the village – a record had been kept by one of the parishioners and Cllr Hodson would obtain a copy for the clerk.

173.13 Smartwater – items of Parish Council Property for marking. Cllr James and the clerk to mark equipment, complete registration and produce a list of items marked

174.13 Cambridgeshire Future Transport – a copy of letter from Mark Lloyd Cambridgeshire County Council to Shailesh Vara MP copied to Rose Foster was read out.   It stated that no changes to the current bus service would be made until the community engagement process had been completed

175.13 Clarion publication – draft amendments made and Cllr James agreed to deliver copies again.   Cllr Hayden thanked her for delivering a copy to all households in the parish.

176.13 Proposed removal of pavilion from recreation ground – It was agreed that the pavilion should be dismantled and disposed of.   Cllr Trolove to ask Geoff G for a quote to demolish the pavilion and put into skip.   Costs of skip hire to be obtained by the clerk.

177.13 District Cllrs update – Cllr Tysoe mentioned the A14 consultation and the HDC cutbacks to improve service and offer value for money.

178.13 Reports of Councillor Responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens had emailed a report on proposed work by CCC

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – Cllr Trolove agreed to ask John Adams for a quote to cut back the boundary hedge between the allotments and the field.

Highways & Police – Cllr James agreed to contact the Community Safety Officer inviting them to give a presentation on Neighbourhood Watch

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had added the HDC funding, recycling credits and Jubilee allocation balance together to give £2085.51for the upgrade of the Recreation Ground Equipment

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden reported that the hall bookings were ticking over nicely and there were no known problems on the Recreation Ground

Allotments – There may be some spare half/whole allotments become vacant.   With one person on the waiting list it was agreed to advertise again in the Clarion.   It was agreed to remind tenants that the boundary of the allotments should be accessible to the Parish Council

Community Liaison – Cllr Alexander gave details of the School Harvest on 25th September at 2.15pm and the Nativity on Thursday 12th December at 6pm.

179.13 Payment of accounts

S Dalley Clerk payment September                             £295.70

CGM grass cutting x August                                        £180.53

180.13 Planning – Application 1301278FUL Proposed kitchen, utility, porch and bedroom extensions, 1 Dells Close – Recommend Approval

181.13 Correspondence received

. Connecting Cambridgeshire – Broadband update

. HDC Plans – Proposed Savings from Jason Ablewhite Exec Leader

. CCC – You choose how to spend county council budget – consultation until 30th November

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 20th August 2013

GREAT & LITTLE GIDDING PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding Huntingdon PE28 5NU

Tel 01832 293068-www-thegiddings.org.uk email: giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 20th August 2013 at 7.30pm.

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (chairman), James (vice chairman), Hodson, Howden and Giddens, County Cllr Bywater and clerk

 

140.13 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Trolove and accepted

141.13 Minutes of 16th July 2013 were agreed and signed

142.13 Matters arising (information only)

143.13 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – Allotments Cllrs Hodson and Howden

144.13 Charles Arnold Baker Local Council Administration – 9th edition had been published.   It was agreed not to purchase a copy (£60) as clerk had access to one at Sawtry but this would be reviewed should circumstances change

145.13 HDC community chest fund – proposal for equipment on Recreation Ground.   It was agreed to allocate £119.85 recycling credits and £114.66 Jubilee funds to the £1,851 grant towards this project.   Cllr James will now work within this budget to get quotes for suitable equipment.

146.13 Risk management review – amendments for approval at next meeting

147.13 Lone Working Risk Assessment – Cllr Alexander will undertake the risk assessment

148.13 Grievance Policy – it was agreed to look again at the policies held by the PC and report back to the next meeting

149.13 Pond maintenance – quote for path to dipping platform- two quotes had been requested but only one received from CGM for £324 + VAT.   It was agreed to ask if the community pay back scheme could undertake this work.

150.13 Village maintenance ‘the pound’ it was agreed to ask the Community Pay Back Scheme if they would undertake the clearing of this area of land.   Leaving the boundary  hedges intact and initially just clearing the  undergrowth.   The clerk has arranged a site  meeting with the offender manager on Wed 21st August

151.13 National Salary Award 2013/14 for Local Council Clerks.   It was agreed to award the new rates of pay with effect from 1st April 2013.

152.13 Smartwater – Cllr James had obtained this and a list is to be drawn up of items to be marked for agreement at the next meeting.   Clerk to complete statement of registration.

153.13 Cambridgeshire Future Transport – update.   No cuts in service will be made until further consultation – still waiting on a date for meeting.

154.13 Allotments – boundary and paths maintenance was discussed and it was agreed that a path should be left between plots and around the boundary. Clerk to write and remind tenants of this.   The hedge that borders the allotments from the field needs cutting back and will be discussed at the next meeting

155.13 Parish Council contribution to 2012/13 Jointly Funded Minor Improvement Scheme – Chapel End.   This was agreed as part of the application process and payment had now been requested for the Parish Council contribution of £1,100.

156.13 County and District Cllrs update   Cllr Bywater reported on his role with County Council committees, his interest in the Parish and wish to help as and when required.

157.13 Reports of Councillor Responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens reported that signs are still to be replaced by the CC

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – no report

Highways & Police – Cllr James reported on the latest information received and is looking into promoting Neighbourhood Watch as there has been some interest shown in the village.

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had produced a budget update and there have been no major changes.

Village Hall & Recreation Ground Cllr Howden reported that apart from some minor jobs in the Village Hall all was in order.   The pavilion on the Recreation Ground was discussed and the management committee have recommended to the Parish Council that it is now no longer fit for purpose and a decision needs to be made as to its disposal/removal.   This will be discussed again at the next Parish Council meeting.

Allotments – Cllr Howden reported that one plot may become vacant – we have one person on the waiting list once confirmation has been received

Community Liaison – Cllr Alexander had no news to report

158.13 Payment of accounts were agreed and signed

Cambs County Council                                  £1,100.00 (Jointly Funded Scheme)

S Dalley Clerk payment July                             £295.70

Data Protection renewal fee                                 £35.00

CGM grass cutting x 3 July                                £270.81

L James (smartwater)                                           £29.50

159.13 Planning – amended plans to 76 Main Street had been received and PC recommendation for approval still agreed as before

160.13 Correspondence received

. HDC budget consultation from Cllr Jason Ablewhite – noted

. Connecting Cambridgeshire – Broadband update – noted

. East Northants Council – Validation of Planning Applications – noted

. Council for the Protection of Rural England request for support – it was agreed to advertise this for individuals to support.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 16th July 2013

GREAT & LITTLE GIDDING PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Offices, Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding Huntingdon PE28 5NU

Tel 01832 293068-www-thegiddings.org.uk email: giddingspc1@btinternet.com

 

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 16th July 2013 at 7.30pm.

Prior to the meeting Councillors had met at the site of the village pound – this item will be on the next agenda for discussion.

 

Present: Cllrs Alexander (chairman), James (vice-chairman), Hayden, Hodson,  Howden, Trolove, Giddens, District Cllr Tysoe and clerk

 

121.13 Apologies for absence were received from County Cllr Bywater

122.13 Minutes of 18th June 2013 were agreed and signed

123.13 Matters arising (information only)

124.13 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

125.13 Update from County and District Councillors – County Cllr Bywater had sent a written update on Cambridgeshire Future Transport.   District Cllr Tysoe gave an update on his response to HDC Local Plan and asked for support of ‘One Leisure’ in Sawtry

126.13 Huntingdonshire District Council Community chest fund award – Cllr James application had been successful and £1,851 had been awarded to regenerate equipment at the Recreation Ground.   Cllr James agreed to obtain quotes for the proposed work.

127.13 Risk management review – Cllr Howden recommended several changes which he will  forward for agreement at the next meeting.

128.13 Lone Working Policy and Grievance Policy – clerk had produced a draft Lone working policy and risk assessment for Cllrs to consider for agreement at the next meeting.   Clerk is working on the grievance policy and would be forwarding for consideration at next meeting.

129.13 Cambridgeshire Future Transport – the timescales for the proposed changes are behind the original schedule and there will be no withdrawal of services in September 2013.   Briefing meetings are still to take place ahead of forming working groups for each area.

130.13 Fields in Trust Land Registry paperwork completion had now been received and a copy would be kept in the office with the original placed in the archives at Huntingdon Library.

131.13 Village noticeboards – Cllr James had assessed the board outside the school and offered to treat with wood preservative before the winter.   Cllr Hayden had previously agreed to do the same to the board attached to his property.

132.13 Archives – minutes for 17th January, 9th May and 27th September 2006 were missing from the Parish Council records.   Cllr Hayden was unable to provide copies so it was agreed to archive the records annotated with these omissions.

133.13 Smartwater – Proposal to purchase and mark Parish Council Property – it was agreed that Cllr James would obtain the smartwater and be reimbursed by the Parish Council (£29.50).   Items would then be identified for marking and appropriate signs put up.

134.13 Clerk’s Appraisal – Cllr Alexander gave a report of the appraisal to the meeting.

135.13 Reports of Councillor Responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens reported that several signs had gone missing again and she was working with the County Council to have these replaced

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – Cllr Trolove expressed concern that residents were removing trees from properties within the conservation area and it was agreed that an article be put in the next Clarion reminding people that they should seek approval from the District Council before carrying out any changes.   The moth evening at the wood had been very successful, there is a good habitat for such a young wood and a full environmental audit is to be carried out.

Highways & Police – the newt sign from the wood had been removed but has been reclaimed and the sink from the pavilion has been taken – both incidents should be reported to the police by those who found them missing.

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had produced a budget update

Cllr Hodson informed the meeting that when the charities were merged the rules for running the hall had been changed.   The Parish Council will be required to provide 2 members to serve on the management committee in 2014 when the existing members complete their 5 year term.

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden reported that the line marking carried out on behalf of the school appeared to have killed the grass.   Cllr Howden to contact the school to ask the contractor if weedkiller had been mixed with the marking paint.

Allotments –Cllr Howden reported that some allotments were suffering with lack of work and were being monitored

Community Liaison –    Several residents of Mill Road had complained to a member of the council about the smell and smoke from a recent bonfire lit in this location.   The clerk was instructed to write to the person concerned.   It had been brought to the council’s attention that the path leading to the dipping platform at the village pond in Main Street required attention as it was now covered in weeds and the bark chippings needed topping up.   Clerk to ask the grass cutting contractor to look at the work and give a quote for the maintenance

136.13 Payment of accounts

S Dalley Clerk payment June                           £295.70

Anglian Water (Recreation Ground)                   £25.56

Anglian Water (Allotments)                                  £7.59 (Charity)

CGM grass cutting June                                   £180.54

Village Hall & Recreation Ground S137           £44.10 (insurance for Gala event)

J R Trolove (Gala event) S137                   £114.33

137.13 Planning – The building control office had visited 61 Main Street and informed the owners of the potential hazards the building now posed with loose roof tiles.

138.13 Clarion – Cllr James had delivered the Clarion to all properties in Great & Little Gidding

139.13 Correspondence received

. Peterborough Cycling Club road race Sunday 25th August – noted

. Rural Cambs Citizens Advice Bureau request for grant form – no further action agreed

. HDC Extended permitted Development rights – noted

. Cambridgeshire Community Champion Scheme – it was agreed to place information on noticeboards

 

Parish Council meeting

Parish Council meeting

The Monthly Parish Council Meeting

The next meeting is on

Monday 12th May 2014

Time  7:30pm

Venue  Village Hall

General public very welcome to attend.

Please note that this is a joint meeting with the Village hall and Recreation field AGM.  A new committee to run these facilities will be elected and a discussion on the approach made by a building contractor about the Village Hall site will follow. Please support your village management committee’s.

 

O come, all ye faithful recyclers

O come, all ye faithful recyclers

The countdown to Christmas has started, and Huntingdonshire District Council would like to encourage you all to keep the party going by remembering to recycle over the festive period. We are recycling more at home than ever before, which is great, and we don’t want it to be forgotten about during the festivities.

Christmas means more waste to dispose of (well… not just that!)

Christmas is a time for entertaining, which means we all have more waste to dispose of. In Huntingdonshire, we are fortunate to be able to recycle a wide range of materials within the blue bins or clear sacks, which helps us all to recycle more this Christmas. Remember to recycle all of your Christmas cards, wrapping paper (paper type only), sweet tins, and the plastic packaging from your gifts within your recycling bin. Don’t forget that all food waste, including your turkey carcass, vegetable peelings and any leftovers can be placed in your garden waste bin for composting.

New dates for collection

Collections of all waste types will continue throughout the festive period, but your day of collection will change for a few weeks. Collection arrangements are below and you can also download your collection calendar from www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/bins

Normal Change to
Monday 23 Dec Normal
Tuesday 24 Dec Normal
Wednesday 25 Dec Friday 27 Dec
Thursday 26 Dec Saturday 28 Dec
Friday 27 Dec Monday 30 Dec
Monday 30 Dec Tuesday 31 Dec
Tuesday 31 Dec Thursday 2 Jan
Wednesday 1 Jan Friday 3 Jan
Thursday 2 Jan Saturday 4 Jan
Friday 3 Jan Monday 6 Jan
Monday 6 Jan Tuesday 7 Jan
Tuesday 7 Jan Wednesday 8 Jan
Wednesday 8 Jan Thursday 9 Jan
Thursday 9 Jan Friday 10 Jan
Friday 10 Jan Saturday 11 Jan

When the festivities are over, recycling continues and here are a few top tips for a green 2014

Many unwanted materials can be recycled at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre.

Alconbury 9am – 4pm
Bluntisham 8am – 4pm
St Neots 8am – 6pm
NB. Sites close at 1pm on Christmas Eve, and are closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Find your nearest at www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/environment/recycling

Recycling Banks for clothes, textiles, DVD’s, CD’s and books are located throughout the district. Find your local bank at www.huntingdonshire.gov.uk/recyclingcentres

Avoid your blue bin being rejected for collection by keeping out black sacks and textiles