Michael is runner-up in ‘Green Champion of the Year’ award

Michael is runner-up in 'Green Champion of the Year' award

This year’s Green Heart Community Awards, backed by the News & Crier and organised by Huntingdonshire District Council, took place at the Burgess Hall in St Ives. Judges received more than 30 entries for six categories including: Best Primary School, Best Secondary School/College, Green Champion of the Year, Best Wildlife or Nature Initiative, Best Environmental Project and Best Business Environmental Project. The shortlisted nominees for each of the categories were invited to an evening dedicated to them and their hard work in helping to improve the environment of Huntingdonshire.

Great Gidding Parish Council nominated Michael Trolove for the Green Heart Community award and he came runner up at the awards ceremony held at the Burgess Hall on Saturday 15th June.

The Parish Council’s nomination:

Working with the Parish Council and the wildlife Trust, Michael Trolove has always been a valuable asset to the wildlife of Great Gidding.

In the last year Michael has dedicated a great deal of time to the renovation of two village ponds and installed a dipping platform. He has recently prepared a third pond in the Jubilee Wood and as a trained Newt Officer, Michael has also developed the Great Gidding Newt Trail; popular with villagers and visitors alike.

As a Tree Warden, Michael keeps a full list of trees on site and all of them have been given a numbered tag for identification. He has been in discussions with DEFRA concerning Ash Dieback Disease and spends much time planting trees around the Parish, organising a planting event and pop up coffee shop, enjoyed by all for the Diamond Jubilee.

Michael works hard on the maintenance of Jubilee Wood, monitoring, weeding, planting new trees and mulching and in the last year added some old varieties of fruit tree to the planting scheme, created log piles and built bug boxes to further encourage wildlife to the area.

Michael Trolove is instrumental in co-ordinating the upkeep of the Jubilee Woods, ponds in the area and all the trees in the Parish and demonstrates log-term commitment to protecting and improving open space within the village of Great Gidding.

Well done Michael. Very well deserved.


Michael Trolove – Runner-Up in the Huntingdon District Council Green Heart Community award

Clarion – March 2013

Clarion - March 2013

Great & Little Gidding Parish Council

Clarion – March 2013

The Giddings Website www.giddings.org.uk In March 2012 the new Giddings website was launched with funding from the Great Gidding Charity.   A calendar has been added so now it’s really easy to keep up to date with what’s happening. The new site is updated by different editors who take responsibility for their own section.   Not just oldies! We are looking for young (15+) members of the village who would like to contribute.   We can set up your own section and help you get started with your very own blog (village-related in some way!)

The Parish News for The Giddings, Hamerton, Winwick and Upton is produced 10 months of the year – annual cost £4 delivered to your door. Please support all those whose voluntary efforts go to produce it. 

Sawtry Eye This is produced bi monthly and distributed to Conington, Glatton, Upton, Winwick, Hamerton and Sawtry.   It may be possible for the distribution to be extended to Great Gidding but it would require volunteers to deliver. Initially we need to know if there is enough interest in receiving this publication – please let the Parish Council know either by email giddingspc1@btinernet.com, tel 293068 (answerphone) or a note through the office door at the village hall.    

Chapel End – the Parish Council have successfully gained funding to make improvements along this stretch of road.   Plans have been drawn up by the County Council for a new footway.   This is a jointly funded initiative and the Parish Council contribution will be 10% of the total cost.

Gains Lane – The County Council have recently removed some dead trees from the verge.

The Jitty – the Community Payback Scheme recently sent a team to clear the path.   Network Power will   carry out work to remove branches that are obstructing their wires

Jubilee WoodAsh Tree Dieback has been observed in the Jubilee Wood and inspected by FERA.  We await a decision on any action that needs to be taken. The Jubilee Wood will reach its 10th Anniversary in June 2013 and it is hoped to mark this celebration with a Woodside Arbour.

Recreation Ground – A plaque to commemorate the Fields in Trust Queen Elizabeth II Field status will be placed near to the entrance.  As items of the wooden adventure trail deteriorate they are being removed for safety reasons.

Parish Council meetings are usually held on 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in the village hall, check noticeboards for agenda – all are welcome to attend

 

Annual Parish Meeting will be held in the Village Hall on Tuesday 19th March at 7pm

All welcome – come along and take part

Great Gidding Shop
Did you know that the following are available from, or through the shop Prescription service – Wellside Surgery will deliver your medication for you to collect Dry cleaning service – drop off and collection.  Daily papers, magazines and lottery tickets

Mobile LibraryRoute H18 – 3rd Thursday every month, Chapel End 12.40pm –1. 00pm
Friendly staff, ready to help, free to join, open to everyone.

  • A wide range of books for all ages.
  • Large print books and audio books
  • Access to all library service stock on request
  • On-line requests delivered to your local mobile library
  • Return items borrowed from any library

Mobile Post Office, Chapel End  Monday 9.30 – 11.30am, Tuesday to Friday 9.30 – 11.00am (exc bank holidays)

Fox and Hounds Public House –  serving food Tue – Sat 7 – 9pm and to book Sunday lunch tel. 293298

Better Broadband
– thank you to everyone who supported the Connecting Cambridgeshire campaign. BT has been awarded the contract and we await further news

Police

Dial 999 for emergency incident requiring immediate assistance. If it is non-emergency dial 101. If you wish to discuss an issue or pass on information by email with your local team email HuntsCops@cambs-police.co.uk Senior contact Sgt Ed McNeill. Please take part in the Community Feedback survey athttp://www.cambs-police.co.uk/survey/huntscops/communitysurvey.htm

Recycling – a textile recycling bank is located in the Village Hall car park.  The materials put in the textile bank are sorted and sent to Africa, any clothes not suitable are cut into rags for industry. A small income may be generated from this (£150 per tonne) for the village

Buses – do you use service 409 – would you like to be involved in Cambridgeshire Future Transport programme, if so we would like to hear from you, please contact the Parish Council.

Parish Council Office open Monday and Thursday 1200 – 2pm in the Village Hall (note amended times) Telephone 293068 (answerphone out of hours) or email giddingspc1@btinternet.com

Parish Councillors

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

Huntingdonshire District Councillors
Darren Tysoe Grove Cottage, Ellington. Tel: 01480 388310
Dick Tuplin t Andrew’s House, Sawtry. Tel: 01487 834156

Cambridgeshire County  Councillor 
Viv McGuire viv.mcguire@cambridgeshire.gov.uk. Tel: 01733 248788

 

Annual Parish Meeting will be held in the village Hall on Tuesday 19th March at 7pm

All Welcome – come along and take part

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 18th December 2012

 

 

1000.12 Apologies for absence were received From Cllr Trolove and accepted

1001.12 Minutes of 13th November 2012 were agreed and signed

1002.12 Matters arising (information only)

1003.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

1004.12 Dispensation Procedure update – The Council considered granting a general dispensation to all Councillors when setting the precept and annual budget where every member will have a Disclosable Pecuniary interest.  Item for next agenda to confirm paperwork.

1005.12 Ash dieback FERA Inspection had taken place and report was awaited. The publication Common Sense Risk Management of Trees was discussed and it was agreed to make an inventory of all trees on land owned by the Parish Council.   Agenda item for January

1006.12 Provision of Grit/Salt Bin for path to School and Churchyard.   This was discussed but agreed that the School seek provision of a bin for their use.

1007.12 BT account – to take advantage of the annual line rental saving payment is required by credit/debit card.   It was proposed by Cllr James and seconded by Cllr Giddens that the annual line rental be paid by personal credit card and Cllr Alexandar to be reimbursed, all agreed.  Payment of £129 will give a saving of £56 on the 2013 line rental and will also be before the price increase in January 13

1008.12 Jubilee Wood – 10 year commemoration of planting 2013.   It was agreed to mark this occasion with a Woodside Arbour which would be funded jointly by the Parish Council S137 and the Great Gidding Charity

1009.12 Mobile Post Office opening times.   Cllr Hayden had received complaints about the service being unreliable. It was reported that an arrangement had been made with a resident who puts out a sign when the vehicle could not attend.   The only times the van should not be present is if the road conditions are dangerous or the signal for the equipment is not available.   Residents are to be asked to keep a record to enable the Parish Council to take up any complaint

1010.12 Jointly Funded Minor Highway Improvements scheme 2012/13 for Chapel End.   The proposed plan had been received to provide a footway along Chapel End.   This will be forwarded to those residents in adjacent properties in Chapel End for comment by 15th January.   The scheme will cost the Parish Council £1100 which is 10% of the total cost.

1011.12 Jointly Funded Minor Highway Improvements scheme 2013/14 application.   It was agreed not to apply as no schemes had been identified at the present time.   Councillors invited to come up with ideas for future improvements/applications

1012.12 It was agreed to amend Representatives reports from School Liaison to Community Liaison

1013.12 Representative reports

Rights of Way – The County Council will look to replace the Rights of Way signs that have recently gone missing.

Tree warden & Jubilee wood – The Electricity provider will be cutting back trees from their lines along the Jitty.   Work had been carried out by the County Council on trees in Gains Lane

Highways & Police   Reports of burglaries in the local area had been received.   PCSO will be attending the February meeting

Finance & Charities – budget reviewed, no charity news

Village Hall & Recreation Ground –Fire inspection certificate completed and smoke detectors being updated in village hall.   The Recreation Ground is in good condition, despite wet weather.

Allotments – ground very wet and one water tap has been turned off and the other lagged.

School Liaison – this report will now cover the community allowing information from other groups within the village to be covered.

 

1014.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

Anglian Water (Recreation Ground)                                  £86.11

BT (direct debit)                                                                 £77.35

PGR Recycling Limited gravel for village hall (S137)     £395.76

 

1015.12 Planning – 1201709REC Replacement of Planning Permission 0901577CAC for demolition of farm house and out building, 61 Main Street, Great Gidding.   This was approved with the additional comment of concern that some roof tiles are loose and may be a hazard to pedestrians and vehicles.

1016.12 Visit to HDC offices to meet staff Friday 25th January 2pm – Cllrs Alexander, James and Clerk to attend.

1017.12 Sawtry Eye – consider delivery to village and Parish Council contribution.   This publication is now delivered to the neighbouring villages of Hamerton, Glatton and Winwick.   It was suggested that we ask residents if they would also like to receive a copy subject to someone being willing to deliver.   A note to go in the next Clarion to gauge interest

1018.12 Correspondence received

.   Safely Managing National Grid’s gas pipeline on your land – copy to tenants

.   Draft SPD on Wind Energy – impact on Northern Wold’s.   Two letters from other parishes had been received concerning this – noted

.   Anglian Water survey for allotments and recreation field had been completed by the clerk.

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 13th November 2012

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (Chairman), Hayden (Vice Chairman), Hodson, Howden, Trolove, Giddens, James, clerk and 3 members of the public.

 

981.12 Apologies for absence – none

982.12 Minutes of 16th October 2012 were agreed and signed

983.12 Matters arising (information only)

984.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – Cllrs Giddens and Hayden 996.12

985.12 PCC request for partnership with PC on churchyard maintenance at Great Gidding – Revd Mary Jepp and Churchwarden Lois Jordan represented the PCC and following a lengthy discussion it was agreed that the clerk would forward details of the contractor used by the PC for grass cutting and that the PCC would find out the cost of servicing the church lawnmower and forward to the PC

986.12 Rural Broadband – Get Cambridgeshire connected update 58 signed up in Great Gidding and 1 in Little Gidding. It was noted that fibre optic had been provided to the school from the Winwick exchange.

987.12 Recreation Ground – Fields in Trust – QE2 dedication update

988.12 BT account review –annual payment of line rental to receive discount has to be paid by card over the phone but clerk to enquire if BACS payment would be acceptable.

989.12 Village Hall request for donation towards replenishing car park gravel – the hall committee provided a quote of £323 +VAT for a load of 18-19 tonnes spec 20 – 25mm washed gravel.   It was agreed to fund this with money from S137 (3 abstained from vote)

990.12 Mobile Post Office – reliability of visits – Cllr Hayden reported that he had received several complaints about the service being unreliable – clerk to speak to neighbouring parishes for their views and report back.

991.12 Jointly Funded Minor Highway Improvements scheme 2013/14.   Our 2012/13 application had been successful but was last on the list so subject to the budget running out before getting to our scheme.   It was therefore agreed to resubmit for 2013/14 and consider submitting a second scheme – to be discussed at the next meeting

992.12 The Potting Shed – offer from Anglian Water on Water Butts £29.99 or 2 for £45.   It was agreed not to take up this offer as there were no suitable locations/benefits

993.12 Precept – agree budget for next financial year.   This was discussed and agreed not to increase the amount of precept requested from HDC would remain at £10,835

994.12 Representative reports

Rights of Way – It was reported that some footpath signs had gone missing/ been taken down and that some brambles needed trimming back.

Tree warden & Jubilee wood – Ash dieback was present in the village and had been reported – awaiting official word on how to deal with this

Highways & Police – House breakins had occurred in neighbouring villages

Finance & Charities – Finance covered in 993.12 and nothing to report on charities.

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Replacement external doors were the next project for the hall – a request will be issued asking for volunteers to organise events in support of the hall.   The pavilion on the Recreation Ground is holding its own

Allotments – the water leak had been fixed

School Liaison – It was noted that in the School newsletter sent to all parents they had been requested to leave gaps when parking on Main Street to allow passing places especially when attending functions at the school – School Christmas Fayre Friday 23rd December

 

995.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

CGM grass cutting October                                               £152.56

Village Hall (History Society –annual hire charges)         £100.00 (S137)

 

996.12   Planning –application 1201708REP replacement permission 0901576FUL for proposed residential development (3 dwellings) 61 Main Street, Great Gidding – recommend approval however the condition of the existing farmhouse is now a matter for concern as there are loose roof tiles and as the property abuts the pavements and highway this may be a hazard to pedestrians and vehicles. – application 1201738FUL Erection of 1 ½ storey detached dwelling, 47 Main Street, Great Gidding – recommend approval.

997.12   Community Hub stake holder meeting 18th October inc notes from Julie Trolove – these were noted and clerk to thank Julie for attending and representing the Parish.

998.12   HMRC -Getting your business ready for PAYE Real Time Information – Clerk currently using Basic PAYE tools.

999.12   Correspondence received

.   Invitation for Councillors and Clerk to visit District Council offices and staff – Cllrs Alexander and James interested in attending – clerk to co-ordinate suitable date.

.   Magpas – request for donation – The PC consider this is up to individuals to donate.

.   HDC arrangements for dealing with standards allegations under the localism act 2011 -noted

.   HDC Ash Dieback Chalara fraxinea advice and guidance – Cllr Trolove is dealing with this

.   Local Policing update – A representative will be attending the Parish Council Meeting in Feb or Mar 2013

.   Winter Gritting service 2012/13 – noted. Councillors requested to check bins and inform clerk of any defects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 16th October 2012

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (Chairman), Hodson, Howden, Giddens, James, Trolove, District Cllr Tuplin, Julie Byard (School Governor) and clerk

 

963.12 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Hayden and accepted

964.12 Minutes of 18th September 2012 were agreed and signed

965.12 Matters arising (information only)

966.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

967.12 New Standards Regime and Code of Conduct – All Cllrs present had completed their disclosure forms.   Training had been offered by the District Council on the new Code of Conduct

968.12 Rural Broadband – Get Cambridgeshire connected update – 53 had signed up from Great Gidding and 1 from Little Gidding – residents are still being urged to join in the campaign

969.12 Fields in Trust – QE2 dedication of Great Gidding Recreation Ground – paperwork was proceeding and it was hoped to receive the commemorative plaque soon

970.12 BT account review – the clerk had amended the BT contract to make a saving on the broadband payments from £19.30 down to £12 per month.   It was also agreed to pay the line rental in advance to make another saving over the year.

971.12 Recording Wildlife near you project – this will be advertised on the noticeboards for any volunteers to take up

972.12 Mobile Post Office – reliability of visits not discussed – agenda item for next month

973.12 History Group – hire of hall for meetings.   It was agreed to use the S137 already allocated to the History Group for the hire of the hall up to the sum of £100

974.12 Community Hub stake holder meeting 18th October 5 – 7pm Sawtry College – no one was available to attend this meeting

 

975.12 Representative reports

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens – nothing to report

Tree warden & Jubilee wood – Cllr Trolove had applied to participate in the Parish Planting Scheme 2012 run by the District Council

Highways & Police – It was
noted that the road surface was being damaged by the development at the Sewage Works – clerk to inform the County Council.   Cllr James agreed to contact the County Council to hasten the clearance of leaves and branches along the Jittty

Finance & Charities (Precept planning November) Cllr Hodson suggested that some of the S137 not allocated this year could be used to top up the gravel at the hall car park. Village Hall committee to obtain price for discussion at next meeting

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden reported that the hall was receiving bookings and the next stage of improvements would be the replacement of some external doors.   Recreation Ground had received a safety check and all was in order for the winter – tap needed lagging.

Allotments – Cllr Howden reported that allotment holders were tidying up for the winter.   It was agreed to leave the one spare plot to receive more manure and allow bonfires. Cllr Alexander had turned off the water in preparation to repair the leak.

School Liaison – Julie Byard updated the Council on the increase in numbers at the school from 43 last year to 61 this year enabling the return to three classes..   They had received another excellent Ofsted and there had been some change in staff.   Parents were being encouraged to lift share and 2 staff had now made arrangements to park in residents drives to help alleviate the parking outside the school.   Cllr James suggested the school contact the Safer Schools scheme for possible improvement in signage.   The school asked for the Parish Councils support by writing to Sir Phillip Naylor Leyland who has agreed to repair the Bell Tower if the community are behind the work.   It was agreed that the clerk write a letter in support of this.   Cllr Giddens offered to help steward the parking when the school hosted an event and to help in the classroom/assembly.

 

976.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

CGM grass cutting August/September                              £343.83

 

977.12   Planning –notification of permission granted for erection of two glass reinforced plastic kiosks to house electrical and control equipment and widening of site access Great Gidding Sewage Treatment Works, Back Lane, Great Gidding

978.12   Correspondence received

.Victim Support – request for contribution towards essential work in Cambridgeshire – none allocated

. Living Sport funding advice event 25th October 7 – 9pm Willingham – noted

. Community Action issue 2/Autumn 2012 for ACRE members – noted

979.12   Trustee meeting – it was agreed to hold a Trustee meeting following the next Parish Council meeting

980.12   Date on next meeting –as the clerk was not available on the third Tuesday of November it was agreed to change the date of the next meeting to Tuesday 13thNovember

 

Minutes of Parish Council meeting held on 18th September 2012

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 18th September 2012 at 7.30pm.

 

Present: Cllrs Alexander (Chairman), Trolove, Giddens, James, clerk and County Councillor McGuire

 

947.12 Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Hodson and Howden and accepted

948.12 Minutes of 21st August 2012 were approved and signed

949.12 Matters arising (information only)

950.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

951.12 New Standards Regime and Code of Conduct – adoption of the code.   Under the Localism Act 2011 it was agreed to adopt the Huntingdonshire District Council new Standards Regime  and Code of Conduct ( taking out reference to ward and cabinet members and amending para 4.2.4 in accordance with Section 33)

952.12 Register of Members’ Interests (Disclosable Pecuniary Interests).   A copy of a letter received by Shailesh Vara MP from Bob Neill MP Parliamentary Under Secretary of State explained the requirement to complete this register.   The Parish Council agreed to accept this and members to complete forms and return to the clerk for forwarding to the District Council

953.12 Public Telephone Box – removal of Phone Box due to accident and inactivity – public notice displayed and any comments to be forwarded to HDC by 1st October

954.12 BT account review – it was agreed to consider paying the line rental in advance to give a saving of £40.   Agenda item for the next meeting.

955.12 Rural Broadband – Get Cambridgeshire connected   Chris Burton had agreed to attend the networking event on 19th September on behalf of the village

956.12 Road safety figures – Lutton road crossroads.   Cllr James had obtained more details on RTCs in this location but it still only produced a possible four incidents.   It was agreed that this would not be enough to warrant requesting the Highways department improving the signage.

957.12 Appointment of External Auditor, Littlejohn LLP – noted

958.12 Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) – membership renewal.   It was agreed to pay the membership fee for the clerk.   Local Training sessions are attended and prove very useful which is of benefit to the smooth running of the council

 

959.12 Representative reports

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens reported that a second cut of the footpath had now taken place

Tree warden & Jubilee wood – Cllr Tolove reported that he had cut the paths in the wood and requested permission to cut back the boundary hedge – this was agreed.  It was noted that Mrs Jarvis would be carrying out a survey of the wood under the OPAL scheme

Highways & Police – the road sweeper had been through the village on 17th September.   The Jitty and pavements are still in need of clearing.

Finance & Charities – no report

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – the grass cutter had difficulty in gaining access to the field (key did not fit padlock) Julie Trolove asked to investigate

Allotments – Cllr Trolove offered some new pipe to help fix the leak – Cllr Alexander agreed to fit replacement lock and chain to the gate.

School Liaison – Cllr Alexander reported that the new term had started but there had not been any news received.

 

960.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques approved

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

S Dalley -postage 12 x 2nd class stamps+amended

audit postage 90p  and copier paper £3.99                          £10.89

Paul Burgess (newt signs)                                                   £25.30 Lottery

SLCC                                                                                   £83.00

Sawtry Parish Council (ESPO) padlock and chain              £19.44 Charity

D Garner (Clarion Delivery – Molly)                                 £10.00

 

961.12   Planning – Cllr Trolove reported that Planning Application 1201153FUL erection of general purpose agricultural building following demolition of existing had been approved by the District Council

962.12   Correspondence received

.   Ameycespa – details of Recycling Open Day 22nd September at Waterbeach

.   ACRE AGM including the launch of new fire safety service and programme of seminars 25th September.

.   Hinchingbrooke Health Care Trust Annual General Meeting 27th September

.   Local Plan – notice of public meetings, the nearest in Sawtry on 11th October

Clarion Summer 2012

Great & Little Gidding Parish Council

Clarion – Summer 2012

 

Parish Council uncontested election results (2012- 2016)                                                  

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 (co-opted)                  Manorfarm House, Main Street              07962099922

We welcome Lydia to the Parish Council and thank Henry Hill, who did not stand for re-election, for the many years of service he has given as a Parish Councillor.

Huntingdonshire District Councillors                                                                                        

Darren Tysoe                                    Grove Cottage, Ellington                     01480 388310

Dick Tuplin                                        St Andrew’s House, Sawtry                 01487 834156

Cambridgeshire County Councillor                                                                                                  

Viv McGuire                               viv.mcguire@cambridgeshire.gov.uk       01733 248788

How to Contact the Police – Emergency incident requiring immediate assistance dial  999   If it is a non-emergency dial 101. If you wish to discuss an issue or pass on information by email with your local team email HuntsCops@cambs.pnn.police.uk.   Expect a reply within 48 hours.  Senior contact for the Huntingdon/Yaxley area – Sgt Ed McNeill

Telephone Box –The kiosk in Main Street has recently been involved in a road traffic accident which damaged it beyond repair.   It transpires that the payphone has only received 10 minutes of usage during the last 12 months and BT is proposing not to replace it.   If you have any comments about this please contact the planning department at Huntingdonshire District Council by 1st October quoting 01832 293292

Recycling – You can now recycle your plastic post, tubs and trays – everything from yogurt pots and margarine tubs to shampoo and milk bottles can now be recycled as part  of your kerbside collection. Please rinse your containers out to prevent food contaminating other products. Visit www.huntingdosnhsire.gov.uk/whatgoesinwhichbin for more details. Recycling Open Day Saturday 22nd Sept AmeyCespa, Waterbeach www.ameycespa.co/east

Remember the Countryside Code – Respect Protect Enjoy – Gates should be left as you find them, dogs under effective control and paths followed, leaving no trace of your visit (take your litter home)  visit www.naturalengland.org.uk for more information.

 

CONNECTING CAMBRIDGESHIRE – How can you support the broadband campaign?

You can help to bring better broadband connectivity to your area by joining the campaign.   It only takes a few minutes to register and will make a big difference – visitwww.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk

Superfast broadband is essential to helping our local economy to thrive so that everyone benefits.

You can become a digital champion to help communities and businesses to find out about the benefits of broadband services.   You don’t need to be an expert and you can choose how much support you give, if you are interested email contact@cambridgeshire.gov.uk.

Getting Better Broadband in our area

Broadband internet is becoming an essential part of our national infrastructure but for those of us who live in rural Cambridgeshire, we are still experiencing very low connection speeds.

 

Great & Little Gidding Parish Council recently held an open meeting for local residents on broadband and the developments that can be expected in the next two or three years.   The meeting was addressed by Ms Annette Thorpe, BT’s Regional Partnership Director and she outlined broadband proposals for the Giddings and surrounding areas.

 

She explained that the Government has pledged £6.75 million to help rural communities’ access broadband in Cambridgeshire and that the County council has pledged a further £20 million to the cause via its ‘Connecting Cambridgeshire’ project.   Additionally, whichever broadband supplier is chosen to provide the scheme will also have to match fund the money already contributed by the County Council and the Government.

 

However superfast broadband will be put in place on a first come first serve bases and the local MP, Shailesh Vara, who helped to arrange the meeting and was also present, had these words to say:

 

“The development of a superfast broadband network is vital for rural communities and will act as a driver for local economic growth.   As well as many households, there are a number of small businesses and farms that increasingly need access to fast internet connections to go about their daily business.

 

It is good news that money is available to provide a superfast broadband service, but I want to emphasise that the money will be spent in areas on a first come first serve basis.   That is why I am urging as many people as possible to visit the Connecting Cambridgeshire website at: www.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk in order to register their interest in this service.   If enough local people register then we will get priority, so please, get onto the website and register today”.

Minutes of a meeting of the Parish Council held on 21st August 2012

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 21st August 2012 at 7.30pm.

 

926.12 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Trolove and accepted

927.12 Minutes of 17th July 2012 were agreed and signed

928.12 Matters arising (information only)

929.12 Parish councillor vacancy – Lydia James was co-opted

930.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

931.12 Election of Vice Chairman – Cllr Hayden was elected

932.12 New Standards Regime and Code of Conduct – deferred to next meeting

933.12 Register of Members’ Interests – deferred to next meeting

 

934.12 Application for Dispensation from Standards Committee-Dispensation granted to seven members of Great & Little Gidding Parish Council to enable them to speak and vote on matters relating to the Village Hall, Recreation Ground and Great Gidding Charity until 30th  April 2016.

 

935.12 Rural Broadband – Get Cambridgeshire Connected.   31 residents had registered their support.   Rose Foster had kindly agreed to deliver a leaflet on this subject to every household.   Invitation to attend a networking event to be forwarded to all who attended meeting in the village hall asking for a volunteer to represent the parish.

 

936.12 Road Safety – Lutton Road crossroads.   FOI figures showed only 1 reported incident since the beginning of 2010.   Cllr James said she would ask if there were any other records that may show additional incidents and report back

 

937.12 Planning – 1201153FUL Erection of general purpose agricultural building following demolition of existing, Manor Site Farm, 91 Main Street – Recommend Approval

 

938.12 Pond update – interpretation boards had been erected at Main Street Pond and Chapel end Pond, the Jubilee Pond sign would be installed shortly.

 

939.12 Telephone Box – this had been knocked over by a road traffic accident and removed by BT.   BT had written to say that it would not be reinstated as it had only had 10 minutes of  usage in the last 12 months

 

940.12 Allotments – water leak and replacement lock.   Cllr Alexander had identified the leak and it was agreed he would fix a replacement joint.   Clerk to obtain a replacement lock and chain for the gate which had been damaged.

 

941.12 Rights of Way – Countryside Code.   Cllr Trolove had sent in a written report that gates had been left open and signs damaged.   It was agreed to put a reminder of the country code in the Clarion.   Cllr James had replacement signs which she would pass on to Cllr Trolove.

 

942.12 Deed of Dedication – Recreation Ground. The draft dead was accepted and details of trustees (all councillors) and names of 2 members with authority to execute legal documents, Cllrs Alexander and Hayden are nominated.

 

943.12 Audited Annual Return and notice of closure of audit.   Completed Audit had been received and notice of closure displayed on the noticeboards.

 

 

944.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

 

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

CGM (grass cutting June/July)                                           £343.82 (inc VAT)

Grafton Projects (copier toner)                                             £71.52 (inc VAT)

The Information Commissioner (Data Protection)               £35.00

Moore Stephens (external audit)                                         £176.40

BT (Direct Debit)                                                                £122.21 (inc VAT)

 

945.12 Representatives reports

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens reported that the grass did not get a second cut.

 

Tree Warden & Jubilee Wood – no report

 

Highways & Police – Cllr Hayden reported that he had contacted Tony King CC re overhanging vegetation in Gains Lane.   Clerk also requested to contact him about the poor state of the pavement along Main Street and request a sweep of the Jitty as this was now hazardous to walk along.

 

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson had produced a budget update and had submitted the Annual Great Gidding Charity return.

 

Village Hall & Recreation Ground- Cllr Howden reported regular maintenance tasks being carried out on village hall.   Wickstead had carried out a play equipment inspection at the Recreation Ground.

 

Allotments – an enquiry about erecting a poly tunnel had been made, no objection raised but a written request is the normal procedure.

 

School Liaison – Cllr Alexander had received no communication (school holiday)

 

946.12 Correspondence received

 

Invitation to attend Cambridgeshire ACRE AGM on 25th September received – Cllrs to let clerk know if they would like to attend by 13th September.

 

Huntingdonshire Matters – aims to bring our local community and organisations together to agree future challenges which face our district.   Postcards to collect residents views – ask village shop if they will display them.

 

Minutes of a meeting of the Parish Council held on 17th July 2012

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 17th July 2012 at 7.30pm.

 

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (Chairman), Hodson, Howden, Giddens, Trolove, District Cllrs Tuplin, Tysoe and clerk

 

District Cllr Tuplin updated the council on the changes to bus route 46 following an enquiry from a member of the Parish.

 

District Cllr Tysoe reported on the proposed changes to refuse collection in 2013

 

908.12 Apologies for absence were received from Cllr Hayden and accepted

 

909.12 Election of vice Chairman was deferred to the next meeting

 

910.12 Minutes of 19th June 2012 were amended 901.12 from £89.94 to £89.84 and signed

 

911.12 Matters arising (information only)

 

912.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

 

913.12 Parish Councillor Vacancy – interest had been registered – agenda co-option next meeting

 

914.12 Representative reports

 

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens had walked the paths and County Council grass cutting had taken place

 

Tree Warden – Cllr Trolove reported all of the new trees were doing well .It was agreed to add report on the stewardship of the Jubilee Wood to future agendas

 

Highways & Police – Cllr Alexander requested Police figures on accidents occurring at the Lutton crossroads.   Clerk to request information

 

Finance & Charities – Accounts had been produced for the Jubilee Celebration Dance – previously agreed sum of £500 to be donated to the event plus outstanding expenses of £5.80p = £505.80 made payable to Sue Shepherd.   A letter of appreciation for organising this successful event to be sent.   Budget update produced and noted

 

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – some minor maintenance jobs outstanding in the hall.   Recreation Ground in good order despite inclement weather

 

Allotments – in good order despite the wet weather

 

School Liaison – no news forthcoming from the school

 

915.12 Annual Audit – Annual return boxes 7 and 8 amended – figures rounded up to £12,347 rather than down to £12,346

 

916.12 Rural Broadband meeting 22nd June.   It was agreed that this was a good meeting and that information should be cascaded through the Clarion, Shailesh Vara to submit an article for inclusion.  Everyone to be encouraged to sign up to this campaign.

 

917.12 Anglian Water – Recreation Ground amended bill – this was due to the addition of the sewage charge

 

918.12 The Gidding Website – Hosting for one year including setting up MySQL database Apr 12 – Mar 13 with Fasthost Internet Ltd £94.66. Updating site with Parish council information May 11 – Feb 12 £150 – payment agreed

 

919.12 Code of  Conduct – defer to next agenda for adoption of new code

 

920.12 Back up of PC laptop – suggested that clerk look at using dropbox

 

921.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

S Dalley (postage 12 x 2nd class stamps, audit

paperwork 90p register of interest paperwork 90p               £7.80

Anglian Water (Recreation Ground)                                    £59.41

Paul Crank                                                                          £244.66

Sue Shepherd (Jubilee Celebration Dance)                        £505.80

 

922.12 Village Hall & Recreation Ground audited accounts were presented and accepted

 

923.12 Clarion – articles for inclusion to be submitted to clerk for next issue

 

924.12 Planning – application H/05008/12/CW Sewage Treatment works, Great Gidding – work had already commenced.

 

925.12 Correspondence – none received

 

Minutes of a meeting of the Parish Council held on 19th June 2012

Minutes of a Meeting of the Parish Council held in the Village Hall, Great Gidding on Tuesday 19th June 2012 at 7.30pm.

Present:   Cllrs Alexander (Chairman), Hodson, Howden, Trolove, Giddens, District Cllr Tuplin and Clerk

 

District Cllr Tuplin reported on the Huntingdonshire Local Plan to 2036 and the Alconbury Enterprise Zone which will provide 5000 new homes and 8000 jobs

 

 

888.12 Apologies for absence – none received

889.12 Election of vice Chairman – deferred to next meeting

890.12 Minutes of 15th May 2012 were agreed and signed

891.12 Matters arising (information only)

892.12 Members declaration of interest for agenda items – none

893.12 Parish Councillor Vacancy Notice for Co-option.   It was agreed to advertise on the noticeboard

 

894.12 Allocation of Councillors responsibilities

Rights of Way – Cllr Giddens

Tree Warden – Cllr Trolove

Highways & Police – Cllr Hayden (tbc)

Finance & Charities – Cllr Hodson

Village Hall & Recreation Ground – Cllr Howden

Allotments – Cllr Howden

School Liaison – Cllr Alexander

 

895.12 Accounts Audit Commission Annual return amendment and Internal Auditors report – observations were noted but no further action required

 

896.12 Financial Regulations annual review – it was agreed to amend all reference to Accounts and Audit (England) Regulations from 2003 and 2006 to 2011.   Para 11.1(h)(a) amend’ obtain 3 quotations’ to’ strive to obtain 3 quotations’

.

897.12 Risk Management annual review. It was agreed to produce a Grievance Policy.

 

898.12 Jubilee event reports – Saturday 2nd June dinner dance in the village hall had been successful. The Sunday 3rd coffee morning and tree planting at the Jubilee Wood was successful despite the inclement weather.   The Monday 4th picnic and games at the Recreation field was also successful.   All those helping to organise these event are to be congratulated.   The 7 bottles of wine left over from the 4th to be donated to the Annual picnic in the wood on 24th June.   The Alexanders and Troloves had represented the village at HM Queens Diamond Jubilee Picnic at Burghley House on Wed 13th June

 

899.12 Report on visit by CC Tree Warden to village.   Two trees in Gains Lane had been identified as needing to be taken down and the CC would carry out this work in due course

 

900.12 Back up of PC laptop –clerk to seek advice from PCok who programmed the laptop as to the best system to use to back up work

 

 

901.12 Reconciliation of accounts and payment of cheques

S Dalley (clerk)                                                                  £295.70

AON Ltd (insurance)                                                         £512.29

Stancombe Fencing (Recreation Ground                           £408.00

J R Trolove (Jubilee Picnic)                                                 £89.94

Nene Valley Brewery (Jubilee Picnic)                                 £81.60

CGM grass cutting 4 cuts                                                   £171.32

Canalbs Ltd (internal audit)                                                  £96.00

Rental of Village Hall for PC office                                   £550.00

HDC electoral services                                                       £105.00

BT Direct Debit                                                                  £134.17

Anglian Water (Charity Account                                          £40.56

 

902.12 Village Hall & Recreation Ground accounts to be audited and presented at next meeting

 

903.12 Annual Appraisal for the clerk had been completed

 

904.12 Planning – application 1200677FUL wind turbine, Grange Farm, Gidding Rd, Sawtry had been withdrawn.   Cllr Giddens had agreed to attend the Town/Parish Planning forum on 25th June at HDC.   Cllr Trolove reported on the work at the sewerage treatment works and the reassurance that the road and verge would be reinstated on completion.

 

905.12 Local Minor Improvements bid – reserve scheme if sufficient funding available

 

906.12 Consultation on appointment of external auditor of Littlejohn LLP for five years-no comment

 

907.12 Rural Broadband meeting 22nd June 2012- Posters had been placed on noticeboard and website plus leaflets through all houses.   Presentation by BT at 7pm with MP in attendance

 

907.12 Correspondence received

Connecting Cambridgeshire – support the CC Broadband Campaign